Before cleaning
- Document every room with timestamped photos and video.
- Confirm water, power, and HVAC are on so cleaners can work.
- Stage supplies and replacement bulbs/filters to avoid store runs.
Move-out cleaning checklist that keeps vacancy short.
Hand this checklist to cleaners or maintenance so the unit is ready for photos and showings within days of notice. Pair it with photo proof to protect the deposit.
Room-by-room steps
Follow the order below to avoid rework and keep the timeline tight.
Kitchen
- Degrease backsplash, range hood, and cabinet faces; wipe pulls.
- Clean oven, stovetop grates, microwave interior, and refrigerator shelves.
- Scrub sink and faucet base; run disposal with soap and ice to freshen.
- Empty and wipe cabinets/drawers; sweep and mop floors last.
Bathrooms
- Descale shower walls/doors and tub; refresh caulk if failing.
- Clean toilet base, hinges, and behind the toilet; replace seat if cracked.
- Polish mirrors, fixtures, lights, and towel bars; disinfect vanity surfaces.
- Mop floors and wipe baseboards after dusting vents and fans.
Living spaces
- Dust ceiling fans, blinds, window sills, and vents; clean switch plates.
- Spot-patch small nail holes and scuffs; wipe doors and trim.
- Clean closets and shelving; vacuum, then mop hard floors.
- Test bulbs and smoke/CO alarms; replace filters as needed.
Photo proof list
Photos settle deposit disputes quickly. Capture before and after shots.
- One wide shot from each corner per room plus any damage close-ups.
- Inside oven, fridge/freezer, microwave, dishwasher filter, and sink disposals.
- Inside cabinets, drawers, and closets to show empty/clean status.
- Entry door hardware, window tracks, blinds, and thermostats after cleaning.
Stay on timeline
Use the vacancy calculator to quantify each delay so owners approve decisions faster.
Pair this checklist with:
Last Updated: January 2025
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