Moving Out Clean-Up Checklist + Template Letter to Landlord (Printable)

Moving out is a busy time. The right cleaning checklist and a well-crafted deposit request letter can save you time and money. Below is a comprehensive room-by-room clean-up guide and a template you can copy, customize, and send to your landlord after you move out.

Move-out cleaning checklist (room-by-room)

General

• Remove all personal items and trash
• Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
• Wipe down baseboards, door frames, and windowsills
• Vacuum and mop floors; consider professional cleaning if required by lease

Kitchen

• Degrease oven and broiler; clean stovetop
• Empty and wipe out refrigerator (defrost if needed)
• Clean dishwasher filter and run a sanitation cycle
• Wipe cabinets inside and out
• Clear and sanitize sink and faucet area

Bathroom

• Scrub tub, shower, toilet, and sinks
• Clean grout and vent covers
• Polish mirrors and chrome fixtures
• Replace exhaust fan filters if needed

Bedrooms and living areas

• Vacuum carpets and clean under furniture
• Wipe closet shelves and rod areas
• Remove all adhesive hooks and patch small nail holes

Outside spaces

• Remove personal items from balconies and sweep
• Clear outdoor trash and return any provided keys or fobs

Final move-out actions

1. Take timestamped photos and video walkthrough of the cleaned unit
2. Record meter readings for utilities
3. Return keys and obtain written acknowledgment of receipt
4. Provide forwarding address for deposit return

Template: Deposit return and forwarding address letter

Copy and paste the template below into an email or printed letter. Customize bracketed sections and keep a signed copy for your records.

Date: [YYYY-MM-DD]

To: [Landlord or Property Manager Name]
Address: [Landlord Address]

Re: Security Deposit Return for [Your Name], [Rental Address]

Dear [Landlord Name],

I am writing to confirm that I vacated the rental unit at [Rental Address] on [Move-out Date]. I have completed the move-out cleaning checklist, returned all keys and access devices, and provided a forwarding address below.

As required by [state/city] law, I request a full accounting of the security deposit and the return of the deposit balance within [statutory period, e.g., 21 days]. If any deductions are proposed, please provide an itemized list with receipts for repairs as required by law.

Forwarding Address:
[Your Forwarding Address]

Please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email] with any questions. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
  

What to do if you don't receive your deposit

If the landlord does not return the deposit or provides an inadequate itemization, follow these steps:

1. Send a certified demand letter referencing local statutes and the documentation you submitted
2. Request mediation through local tenant services if available
3. File a claim in small claims court with your photo, video, and receipts as evidence

Printable checklist

Print the room-by-room checklist and check items as you complete them. Taking photos at each stage creates a timestamped record proving you completed the cleaning.

"Leaving a clean, well-documented unit is the best investment for securing your deposit back quickly."

Final tips

• Schedule professional cleaners only if the lease requires it or if you prefer not to do the work yourself.
• Keep copies of receipts for any professional services and repairs you paid for.
• Deliver the deposit request and forwarding address via certified mail and email to create multiple proof channels.

Use this checklist and the letter template to remove ambiguity and reduce friction during move-out. Clear documentation and courteous, professional communication make disputes rare and recoveries faster.