A clean unit is one of the easiest ways to protect your security deposit. Requirements differ from lease to lease, so read yours first, then use this room-by-room checklist to cover what landlords and property managers usually look at.
Kitchen
- Empty, wipe and defrost the fridge and freezer
- Clean inside and outside the oven and stovetop
- Wipe the microwave inside and out
- Wipe cabinets and drawers inside and out
- Scrub the sink and polish the faucet
- Wipe countertops and backsplash
- Sweep and mop the floor
Bathrooms
- Scrub the toilet, including the base and behind it
- Clean the tub, shower and tile, and remove soap scum
- Clean sinks, vanities and mirrors
- Wipe fixtures until they shine
- Mop the floor
Bedrooms and living areas
- Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures and vents
- Wipe baseboards, door frames and light switches
- Clean blinds, window sills and glass
- Wipe out closet shelves and floors
- Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors, including corners and edges
Whole home
- Remove all belongings and trash
- Spot clean marks on walls
- Check inside every cabinet, closet and drawer one last time
Tips that save you trouble
- Clean last. Wait until the movers are gone so you are not cleaning twice.
- Take dated photos of every room once it is clean. They are your proof if a deduction is disputed.
- Do a final walk-through with the lights on and look low, at baseboards and corners, and high, at fans and vents.
- Check your lease and move-out notice for any cleaning standard the landlord requires.
When to hire a professional crew
Moving is already a long to-do list. A professional move-out clean makes sense when you are on a tight timeline, cleaning a large home, or handing over keys on a fixed date. It also helps landlords, agents and property managers who need a unit ready for the next tenant or for showings.
We recommend booking at least 3 to 5 days ahead, and earlier for weekends and busy moving seasons.
Need a hand?
Dr. Bucket Cleaning & Maintenance provides move-in and move-out cleaning across Knoxville, Maryville, Oak Ridge, Sevierville and nearby cities. We bring all supplies and equipment, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call (865) 203-3457 for a free estimate or book online.