Move-Out Cleaning Guide: How to Get Your Full Deposit Back

Most security deposit disputes come down to cleaning. Here's exactly what landlords look for during move-out inspections and how to make sure your unit passes on the first walk-through.

Kitchen

Inspectors open every cabinet and drawer, pull out the oven and fridge, and check inside the dishwasher and microwave. Degrease cabinet fronts and the range hood, scrub inside the oven (including the door glass), wipe down the fridge inside and out (behind and under it if you can move it), descale the sink, and sanitize the countertops.

Bathrooms

Focus on soap scum on shower glass and tile, mineral deposits around fixtures, grout, exhaust fan covers, inside vanity drawers, behind the toilet, and the base of the toilet.

All rooms

Baseboards, door frames, light switch plates, blinds, window sills, vent covers, ceiling fans, and closet shelves and rods. Landlords also check for wall marks and scuffs — magic erasers work wonders.

Floors

Vacuum every carpet edge, spot-treat stains, mop hard floors, and clean tile grout in high-traffic areas. If pets lived there, address odor.

Pro tip

Take before-and-after photos on move-out day. If you'd rather skip the whole exercise, a professional move-out clean typically pays for itself in the deposit you get back.