Move-Out Cleaning Checklist: What Landlords Actually Look For

Move-Out Cleaning Checklist: What L andlords Actually Look For

Why Move-Out Cleaning Matters

If you’re preparing to move, cleaning may feel like the last thing on your list—but it’s one of the most important. Landlords expect tenants to leave their space in clean, rentable condition. Failing to do so can result in deductions from your security deposit or unexpected cleaning fees.

At H&S Ultra Cleaning Group, we’ve worked with countless renters, landlords, and property managers. This detailed checklist outlines exactly what most landlords look for—and how you can leave your space spotless, stress-free.

What to Clean Before You Move Out

Here’s what landlords typically expect, broken down by room and task:

1. General Areas

• Dust all baseboards, ceiling fans, and vents
• Clean walls and spot-treat scuffs or stains
• Remove all nails, tacks, or hooks and patch holes
• Wipe windowsills, blinds, and interior windows
• Sweep, mop, or vacuum all floors
• Empty and wipe closets and storage areas
• Replace burnt-out light bulbs

Pro Tip: Even clean-looking walls can hold dust. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth can make a big difference.

2. Kitchen

• Clean all countertops and cabinet surfaces
• Wipe down all appliances (interior and exterior)
  • Fridge: Remove all contents, wipe shelves, and clean seals
  • Oven: Remove racks and clean buildup
  • Microwave: Clean inside and outside, including under
• Scrub sink and garbage disposal
• Clean behind appliances if accessible
• Remove trash and vacuum/mop floor

Pro Tip: Landlords will open the fridge and oven—be thorough inside appliances to avoid deductions.

3. Bathroom(s)

• Scrub toilet, shower, and sink until stain- and soap-free
• Clean mirrors and fixtures
• Wipe down cabinets, drawers, and shelves
• Remove all personal items
• Mop the floor
• Clean exhaust fan covers

Pro Tip: Pay attention to grout lines and caulking—these are high-inspection areas for landlords.

4. Bedrooms & Living Room

• Vacuum carpets or mop floors
• Dust and wipe all surfaces, including windowsills and doors
• Remove cobwebs from corners
• Clean out closets completely
• Ensure no marks or damages are left on walls

Pro Tip: Use a Magic Eraser or damp microfiber cloth to gently remove scuffs from painted walls.

5. Final Touches Landlords Appreciate

• Take out all trash and clean trash bins
• Leave thermostat at recommended setting
• Leave keys, garage remotes, or access cards as instructed
• Document your clean with photos (before/after if possible)

When to Call in the Pros

If you’re short on time or facing a landlord with strict inspection standards, a professional move-out cleaning service is a smart investment. At H&S Ultra Cleaning Group, we help renters throughout Southeastern North Carolina leave their units in inspection-ready condition—often helping secure full deposit returns.

We follow detailed landlord-approved checklists and offer same-day and next-day cleaning availability to fit your moving timeline.

Make Your Exit a Clean One

Moving is hard enough—cleaning shouldn’t add to your stress. Use this checklist to guide your move-out process or leave it to the professionals.

📞 Call 910-584-4158 or click below to get a free quote on move-out cleaning service.

👉 Book Move-Out Cleaning Today