Moving is stressful enough without worrying about your security deposit. The good news? A thorough move-out cleaning can help you get every dollar back. Here's our complete checklist, including the spots landlords always check (and tenants often miss).
What Landlords Look For During Move-Out Inspections
Understanding what landlords inspect helps you focus your cleaning efforts. Most landlords or property managers check:
- Kitchen appliances (inside and out)
- Bathroom fixtures and grout
- Closet interiors
- Window sills and tracks
- Baseboards and door frames
- Light fixtures and switch plates
- Overall floor condition
- Cabinet interiors
The Complete Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
Kitchen
- Clean inside and outside of refrigerator (remove all food!)
- Defrost freezer if needed
- Clean oven inside and out (including racks)
- Degrease stovetop and drip pans
- Clean range hood and filter
- Wipe microwave inside and out
- Clean dishwasher (filter and interior)
- Wipe down all cabinet exteriors
- Clean inside all cabinets and drawers
- Scrub sink and polish faucet
- Clean countertops
- Degrease backsplash
- Wipe down light fixtures
- Clean switch plates and outlet covers
- Sweep and mop floor (including corners)
- Remove trash and replace liner
Bathrooms
- Scrub toilet thoroughly (including base and behind)
- Clean bathtub/shower (including grout and caulk)
- Remove soap scum from glass doors/curtain rod
- Disinfect sink and polish fixtures
- Clean mirror
- Wipe down all cabinet exteriors
- Clean inside cabinets and drawers (remove shelf liners)
- Clean exhaust fan
- Wipe down towel bars and toilet paper holder
- Clean light fixtures
- Scrub floor and baseboards
- Check for mold and mildew
Bedrooms and Living Areas
- Remove all furniture and belongings
- Clean inside all closets (including shelves and rods)
- Wipe down all window sills
- Clean window tracks
- Dust and wipe blinds or wash curtains
- Wipe down all baseboards
- Clean door frames and doors
- Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans
- Wipe switch plates and door handles
- Patch small nail holes (if allowed/required)
- Vacuum or sweep thoroughly
- Mop hard floors
- Spot clean carpets if needed
Often-Missed Spots (Check These!)
- Tops of doors and door frames
- Inside window tracks
- Behind toilet
- Top of refrigerator
- Inside oven drawer
- Dishwasher filter
- Range hood filter
- Closet shelves and rods
- Garage floor (if applicable)
- Patio/balcony (if applicable)
- Light switch plates
- Baseboards (especially in corners)
Pro Tip: Take photos of every room after cleaning. This protects you if there's a dispute about the condition of the apartment.
Timeline: When to Start Move-Out Cleaning
Don't leave cleaning for your last day! Here's an ideal timeline:
- 2 weeks before: Start decluttering and packing non-essentials
- 1 week before: Clean rooms that are mostly empty
- 3-4 days before: Deep clean kitchen and bathrooms
- 1-2 days before: Final walkthrough and touch-ups
- Move-out day: Quick sweep/mop after furniture is removed
Wisconsin Rental Law: What Landlords Can Deduct
Under Wisconsin law (ATCP 134), landlords can only deduct from your security deposit for:
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Unpaid rent or utility charges
- Cleaning costs if the unit is not left in the same condition as move-in (minus normal wear)
- Costs to restore the property per the lease agreement
Normal wear and tear (minor scuffs, carpet wear patterns, small nail holes for hanging) cannot be deducted. However, excessive dirt, grease buildup, or neglected cleaning IS deductible.
DIY vs. Professional Move-Out Cleaning
Should you hire professionals for move-out cleaning? Consider the cost-benefit:
- DIY cost: Your time (6-10 hours for a 2BR apartment) plus supplies ($30-50)
- Professional cost: $150-350 depending on size
- If your deposit is $1,000+, professional cleaning can be a smart investment
- Professionals know exactly what landlords look for
- Less stress during an already stressful time
Pro Tip: Some landlords will accept a receipt from a professional cleaning company as proof the unit was properly cleaned. Ask your landlord if this applies.
Moving out doesn't have to mean losing your security deposit. Follow this checklist, document your cleaning with photos, and leave your old place spotless. Your wallet will thank you!