Your landlord is going to walk through the place after you leave, and anything that looks dirty can end up as a line item on your deposit statement. This move out cleaning checklist for security deposit refunds covers what they tend to look at, plus the Texas rules on what they’re allowed to charge. Wondering what happens if you skip move out cleaning? Usually, the landlord hires a cleaner and takes the cost out of your deposit.
Know the Texas rules first
Two things catch people out. Texas landlords have 30 days to refund your deposit or send an itemized list of deductions, but the clock starts only after you’ve moved out and given them a forwarding address in writing. So send it. They also can’t deduct for normal wear and tear, like faded paint or carpet worn down where people walk. Grease and grime are a different story. That part’s on you.
The move out cleaning checklist for security deposit day
Work top to bottom. Spend the most time in the kitchen and bathroom, since that’s where buildup shows.
Kitchen
Pull the fridge out and clean behind it. Wipe inside the oven, the microwave and every cabinet shelf. Degrease the range hood filter.
Bathroom
Scrub soap scum off the tub and glass, then clean the grout. Wipe around the toilet base, which gets missed a lot.
Everywhere else
Dust baseboards, blinds and ceiling fans, then vacuum and mop. Wipe light switches. If you’re following an apartment move out cleaning checklist, add the balcony and the inside of closets.
Mistakes that cost renters money
Leaving it all for the last night is the big one. You’ll be tired, and the oven alone can eat an hour. Skipping photos is another, so take dated pictures of every room once you’re done. Many landlords build their landlord move out inspection checklist from the move-in report. That makes your own copy of it the most useful move out cleaning checklist for renters there is.
DIY or hire someone?
A move-out clean goes further than your weekly routine. Our breakdown of move out cleaning vs deep cleaning explains how. 1-800-GOT-JUNK estimates a two-bedroom takes 4 to 8 hours yourself, or roughly $150 to $500 for a professional clean.
Before you hand over the keys
Start a few days before your lease ends, and get your forwarding address to the landlord in writing. Check your lease too, since some require advance written notice before you move. This isn’t legal advice, just the basics. If you’d rather hand the cleaning off, Professional Cleaning Services in Texas can take it from there.