Complete Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
Written by Shannon, Owner and Founder of Long Island MaidsMoving out? This room-by-room checklist covers everything landlords look for during the final walkthrough. Follow it to get your full security deposit back—or at least know exactly where you stand.
When to Start Cleaning
Don't wait until the last day. According to the New York Attorney General, landlords can legally deduct for cleaning costs. The best move-out cleans happen over 2-3 days:
Before Move-Out
Start packing and decluttering. Clean items as you pack them. Begin with rooms you use least.
Before Move-Out
Deep clean kitchen appliances and bathrooms. These take longest and can be done with furniture still in place.
After Furniture Out
Once everything is out, do floors, closets, and final touch-ups. This is when you can reach everything.
Kitchen Checklist
Kitchens get the most scrutiny. Landlords check inside appliances, under sinks, and in cabinets.
- Inside oven (racks too)
- Stovetop and drip pans
- Range hood and filter
- Inside microwave
- Inside refrigerator (all shelves/drawers)
- Inside freezer
- Behind/under refrigerator
- Inside dishwasher
- Inside all cabinets
- Inside all drawers
- Under sink area
- Countertops
- Backsplash
- Sink and faucet
- Garbage disposal (run with ice + lemon)
- Light fixtures
- Floor (including under appliances)
- Baseboards
Bathroom Checklist
Bathrooms are the second most-checked area. Grout, caulk, and behind the toilet are common problem spots.
- Toilet bowl (inside)
- Toilet exterior and base
- Behind toilet
- Shower/tub
- Shower door or curtain rod
- Tile grout
- Caulk lines (check for mold)
- Sink and faucet
- Vanity countertop
- Inside medicine cabinet
- Under sink cabinet
- Mirror
- Light fixtures
- Exhaust fan
- Towel bars/hooks
- Floor and baseboards
Bedroom Checklist
- Inside closet (shelves, rod, floor)
- Closet doors/tracks
- Ceiling fan
- Light fixtures
- Windows (inside)
- Window sills and tracks
- Blinds/curtain rods
- Walls (spot clean marks)
- Doors and door frames
- Light switches and outlets
- Baseboards
- Floor (vacuum carpet or mop)
Living Areas Checklist
- Ceiling fan
- Light fixtures
- Windows (inside)
- Window sills and tracks
- Blinds
- Walls (spot clean marks/scuffs)
- Doors and frames
- Light switches and outlets
- HVAC vents
- Baseboards
- Fireplace (if applicable)
- Floor (vacuum/mop entire area)
Whole Home Checklist
- All doors (front, back, interior)
- All door handles
- All light switches
- Thermostat
- Smoke/CO detectors (dust)
- Laundry area
- Garage (sweep, remove oil stains)
- Patio/balcony
- Storage areas
- Entry/hallways
- Stairways (if applicable)
- Remove ALL trash
Final Walkthrough Tips
- Schedule during daylight: Natural light reveals dirt you might miss
- Bring your checklist: Walk through room by room with the landlord
- Note pre-existing damage: Reference your move-in photos if needed
- Get it in writing: Ask for a signed acknowledgment of the condition
- Keep copies: Photos, receipts for cleaning supplies, everything
What "Broom Clean" Actually Means
Some leases only require "broom clean" condition. This typically means:
- All personal belongings removed
- Floors swept/vacuumed
- No excessive dirt or debris
- Appliances emptied
- Trash removed
However, most landlords expect more than the minimum. When in doubt, clean more thoroughly—it's easier than fighting for your deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does move-out cleaning take?
A thorough move-out cleaning typically takes 3-6 hours for an empty apartment or small home, depending on size and condition. Larger homes or heavily soiled units may take 6-8+ hours. Spread the work over 2-3 days for best results.
What does "broom clean" mean for move-out?
Broom clean is the minimum standard: all belongings removed, floors swept/vacuumed, no excessive dirt, appliances emptied, and trash removed. However, most landlords expect more thorough cleaning. When in doubt, clean more than the minimum to protect your deposit.
Should I clean inside appliances when moving out?
Yes, absolutely. Landlords check inside the oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave during move-out inspection. Dirty appliances are one of the most common deposit deductions, typically costing $50-150 each. Always clean inside all appliances.
Do I need to fill nail holes before moving out?
Small nail holes from normal picture hanging are typically considered normal wear and tear in New York. However, larger holes, numerous holes, or anchor damage should be filled with spackle. Check your lease for specific requirements about wall damage.
What if the apartment wasn't clean when I moved in?
If you documented the condition with timestamped photos at move-in, you can use these as evidence that pre-existing issues shouldn't be charged to you. Without documentation, it becomes your word against the landlord's. Always take photos at both move-in and move-out.
Related Guides
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