Are you planning a big move soon? It’s crucial to leave your current apartment clean and ready for the next person. To help you with the process, we’ve created the ultimate move-out checklist for your apartment.

Why is a Move-Out Checklist Helpful? 

The process of moving out often feels daunting, especially since you’re likely moving into a new apartment at the same time. Using a move-out cleaning checklist ensures that you don’t miss any important steps in the process. 

To get your security deposit back, you’ll need to leave your apartment in good condition for the next person. If you leave your apartment messy or damaged, your property manager will need to use part or all of your security deposit to get it cleaned up. This means that you could lose out on a significant sum of money that you could have put toward your next apartment. 

13-Step Apartment Move-Out Checklist

This move-out cleaning checklist has everything you need to get ready for a big move. 

  1. Move ALL Your Stuff Out

It’s very difficult to get your apartment clean when your furniture is in the way. Start by moving all your stuff out of the apartment so you can see what needs to be done and clean more efficiently. If possible, it’s helpful to move out a few days before the end of your lease, so you have more time to clean once everything is out of the way. 

  1. Dust (Including Ceiling Fans, Baseboards and Trim!) 

You’ll be surprised by how much dust builds up in your apartment over time, even if you clean regularly. Start by dusting every open surface, and make sure to get into the nooks and crannies as well. 

  1. Wipe Down Surfaces and Inside Cabinets

To get things squeaky clean, wipe down your surfaces and inside your cabinets to remove any stains or other buildup. Focus on the kitchen and bathroom, as these spaces are most likely to get dirty. 

  1. Clean Windows and Mirrors

Next, go through the entire apartment and clean the windows and mirrors. To avoid streaks on your windows, use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe away the cleaning solution, and work in multiple directions. A thorough rinse at the end of the process will remove any remaining dirt and grime. 

  1. Deep Clean Your Bathroom

Cleaning your bathroom might not be the most fun task on this list, but it’s an important step to get your apartment in great shape. Clean your shower, bathtub and sinks to remove any soap scum or mildew that has built up. You’ll also want to clean your toilet and address any plumbing issues to make sure it’s in good condition. 

  1. Deep Clean Your Kitchen Appliances

Your kitchen is another area that gets dirty very quickly. Clean your oven, stove, microwave and refrigerator to make sure there’s no food and grease buildup. 

  1. Remove Nails From Walls and Patch Holes

If you’ve hung any art or posters on your walls, you’ll need to make sure that all the nails are taken out and that you’ve patched up any holes. Most nails are easy to remove with a hammer, but you may need to use end-cutting pliers if the nail is stuck in the wall. To patch the holes, invest in a wall repair solution and putty knife. 

  1. Touch Up Paint if You Can

If possible, you’ll want to touch up the paint in the apartment anywhere that it has faded or worn off. In order to do this, you’ll need access to the same shades of paint originally used. If you don’t have access to the right paint color, leave the walls alone, as a patch of the wrong color could be even more distracting. If you painted any rooms bold colors when you moved in, paint them back to a more neutral shade before you move out. 

  1. Vacuum and Clean Floors 

Your vacuum should remove any remaining dust from the floor and keep carpets neat and clean. Use a mop or Swiffer to remove any spills or stains from hardwood floors. 

  1. Take Out the Trash

You’re going to find a lot of trash during the move-out process. Make sure it’s all packed up and properly disposed of before you leave the apartment permanently. 

  1. Change Your Address

Set up mail forwarding with the post office to ensure that you receive bills, tax documents and other important pieces of mail. You’ll also want to contact your employer and bank to let them know that your permanent address has changed to avoid any confusion. 

  1. Give Your Property Manager the Keys

Talk to your property manager when you move out to let them know that you have vacated the premises. You’ll also need to give back your keys, parking permits and access cards. Some property managers will allow you to leave these in the apartment, while others will want you to return them in person. 

  1. Turn Off the Lights and HVAC

You’ll still be billed for electricity until you move into your new apartment and switch your utility accounts. To avoid any unexpected charges and save energy, turn your lights and heat or air conditioning off. 

Moving? See if Southern Management Could Be Your New Home

If you’re looking for a new apartment in the Baltimore or Washington, D.C. metro areas, Southern Management is here to help. With our portfolio of amazing communities throughout the DMV areas, we have great rental options for everyone. Check out our apartment communities to find your new home today!