Table of Contents
Moving out without proper end of lease cleaning can be costly and almost always leads to losing your bond deposit. Landlords and property managers expect the property to be returned in the same condition as when you moved in, and failing to clean thoroughly can mean deductions from your bond or even extra charges. Remember, the dirtier the apartment, the higher the cleaning costs both financially and in terms of stress making professional vacate cleaning services a smart investment before handing back the keys.
Is Apartment Cleaning Included When You Move Out?
Always start by reviewing your lease or rental agreement. In most cases, tenants are expected to return the property in a “broom-clean” condition, and many landlords or property managers require a professional end of lease cleaning to ensure it meets inspection standards.
Your signed lease agreement confirms this responsibility meaning the unit must be left in pristine condition as per real estate requirements. The safest approach is to hire a cleaning service that follows an agency-approved checklist, covering every detail landlords look for.
If you’re pressed for time or energy, you could enlist help from friends or family, but professional cleaners remain the best option. They deliver the thorough results needed to protect your bond and make the move-out process smoother. Whether you go DIY or hire experts, leaving your apartment spotless is always worth the effort.
Think Like Your Landlord
Once you hand back the keys, the apartment belongs to your landlord again. If you leave it dirty or full of clutter, it becomes their responsibility to deal with. That means arranging cleaning or removal services tasks that cost time and money.
Landlords may hire a professional cleaning company or ask building staff to handle the job, often at overtime rates. Either way, those expenses can quickly add up and are often deducted from your bond or security deposit.
Even bulky items you’ve left behind like old furniture, broken appliances, or bikes must be cleared, which adds to the cost. By taking care of cleaning and removal before moving out, you save your landlord the hassle and protect your own wallet.
Why leaving a dirty apartment is simply bad manners
Beyond the hit to your wallet and rental history, there’s a matter of plain courtesy. When you leave your apartment in a mess, you’re passing that burden onto someone else usually your landlord or the cleaning crew. Imagine their day: instead of moving along to their next job, they’re stuck scrubbing the grime you left behind.
The folks who tackle the cleaning aren’t just hired hands; they’re hardworking people with their own schedules and responsibilities. Leaving a mess ups the workload and stress for everyone involved. It’s worth remembering that a little common decency goes a long way a quick tidy-up shows respect for the people who follow after you.
Hiring a Hauler Increases Costs and Can Cut Into Your Deposit
Where you live plays a big role in whether you’ll get your full security deposit refund. In most states, landlords are allowed to deduct certain “turn costs” from your bond if you leave the property in poor condition.
What Are Turn Costs?
Turn costs are the expenses a landlord incurs to make a rental ready for the next tenant. These often include:
- Painting or patching walls
- Fixing cracks or filling nail holes
- Replacing locks
- Installing new flooring or appliances
If the damage is just normal wear and tear, you won’t be held responsible. But cleaning is different. Since your lease agreement requires you to leave the property in a reasonably clean condition, skipping it becomes your responsibility.
Ignore this, and it could cost you more than expected. For instance, if your landlord hires a hauler to clear bulky items or brings in a cleaning crew, those expenses can legally come straight out of your bond money.
Moving Cleanup
Many landlords provide a cleaning checklist about two weeks before your move-out. If not, your lease usually outlines your cleaning responsibilities. Following it ensures both you and your landlord know the property will be properly maintained.
For a thorough clean, work from top to bottom. Dusting light fixtures and shelves first prevents dirt from falling onto floors you’ve already cleaned, making the process more efficient and effective.
How to Leave Your Place Spotless
- Remove Ceiling Cobwebs: Use a broom to clear all corners and ceilings.
- Check Lighting: Replace any worn-out bulbs and dust light fixtures.
- Clean Window Treatments: Use an old sock as a glove to dust blinds or curtains; dampen your palm to wipe each slat.
- Wash Windows: Newspaper and window spray give a streak-free finish.
- Patch and Paint: Fill nail holes or cover old picture hanger marks with spackle and paint.
- Vacuum Walls and Trim: Don’t forget walls, baseboards, and trim use a microfiber cloth and surface cleaner.
- Clean Carpets and Rugs: Use a carpet cleaner for a fresh, spotless look.
- Final Floor Touch: Mop or vacuum all hard floors.
Tip: Have your cleaning materials ready in advance they make the process faster and more efficient.
Before You Go: Schedule a Walkthrough
Arrange a final walkthrough with your landlord to ensure your idea of clean matches theirs. If anything is missed, they can point it out. Always take photos to document the condition of the property in case of disputes.
If your landlord withholds part or all of your security deposit due to cleaning costs, request an itemized bill. If they fail to provide one, you may have grounds for a Wrongful Withholding of Security Deposit claim, depending on your state’s laws.
If you don’t receive your deposit or a clear explanation of cleaning expenses, consider consulting an attorney to explore legal options in your area.
Can Your Landlord Sue?
In serious cases, a landlord may retain the entire security deposit and even take legal action if the deposit isn’t enough to cover all cleaning, repairs, or damages such as broken window blinds.
This generally applies only when the property’s condition goes beyond normal wear and tear.
Consequences of Not Cleaning Before Moving
Neglecting to clean your apartment before moving out can be costly. You may lose part or all of your security deposit, which could affect funds for your next home or even a vehicle.
It can also harm your rental reputation, making it more difficult to secure future rentals. Leaving a property in poor condition creates unnecessary complications for your next move.
Rental Applications
When applying for a rental, a reference is usually required just like when you first leased. References can come from previous landlords, employers, teachers, coworkers, or even financial advisors.
Landlords and property managers are looking for tenants who are responsible, trustworthy, financially stable, and respectful of the property. A strong reference can help you stand out and secure your next rental.
Landlord References and Credit Implications
Most rental applications ask for landlord references. If you left your previous rental unclean, your former landlord may be hesitant to vouch for you as responsible or trustworthy. Many landlords avoid giving negative references due to liability concerns, but listing a landlord who had to clean up after you can be risky.
Unpaid cleaning fees that lead to legal action may appear on your credit record. Even a minor mark can affect future financial matters, such as interest rates on credit cards, car loans, or mortgages.
Mortgage Applications and Rental Reputation
When applying for a mortgage, lenders consider your income and credit history but your rental track record can also play a role. A strong reputation with past landlords demonstrates responsibility and reliability. Leaving a messy flat, on the other hand, can limit your rental or reference options and may indirectly affect future financial opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Ideally, you’ll enjoy your rental for years, but when it’s time to move on, taking a few hours to sweep, vacuum, and thoroughly sanitize your unit is well worth it. While the effort might seem minor at the moment, neglecting it can lead to lost security deposits, potential disputes with your landlord, and a tarnished rental or financial reputation. A clean, well-prepared move-out not only protects your bond but also sets you up for smoother transitions in future rentals.
Refresh, shine, and relax! Book your professional home clean in under a minute and feel the magic of a spotless space.
