Move-out cleaning checklist — everything before the inspection

Why is a checklist necessary?

An approved inspection requires the home to be left in the same condition it was taken over in, allowing for normal wear and tear. It is not enough that it "looks clean" — landlords and estate agents systematically check surfaces you might forget in everyday life.

Kitchen

• Stove and hob — clean all burners, rings and the glass hob
• Oven — remove baked-on grease; a degreasing spray is usually needed
• Extractor fan and filter — replace or wash the grease filter, wipe the fan inside and out
• Fridge and freezer — defrost the freezer if needed, clean all shelves and seals
• Dishwasher — clean the filter, door seals and interior
• Microwave — clean inside and out
• Cabinets and drawers — wipe inside and out, including hinges
• Counters and splashbacks — remove stains and wipe the whole surface
• Sink and tap — descale and polish

Bathroom and toilet

• Toilet — clean under the rim, on the outside and behind
• Basin and tap — descale thoroughly
• Shower or bathtub — descale the shower head, clean grout and drains
• Tiles and grout — scrub the grout with a grout brush
• Mirror cabinet and mirror — polish and wipe
• Ventilation grille — dust off or unscrew and wash
• Floor and floor drains — clean the drain carefully, clean the whole floor

Living room and bedroom

• Windows — clean inside and out (if possible), including frames and sills
• Curtain rods and blinds — vacuum the slats, wipe the rods
• Doors and door frames — wipe off fingerprints and dirt
• Walls and ceiling — check for stains, remove them if possible
• Sockets and switches — wipe down
• Skirting boards — wipe along the entire length
• Wardrobes — wipe shelves, rails and the inside of doors

Hallway and common areas

• Front door — wipe inside and out, clean the letterbox
• Hallway — vacuum and mop, wipe coat hooks and shelves
• Balcony or patio — sweep clean, clean the railing and floor drains

Storage and extra spaces

• Bin room and basement storage — empty and sweep clean
• Laundry room (if included) — clean machines and surfaces if they are part of the lease

Tips for inspection day

Start from the inside and work outwards. Always clean from top to bottom (ceiling, lights, shelves, then floors). Take photos after cleaning as documentation in case of a dispute. If you hire a professional cleaning company for move-out cleaning you can often request a re-clean if the landlord flags something within 24 hours.

Also read our guide on how to choose the right cleaning company before your move.