Move-Out Cleaning Checklist to Get Your Security Deposit Back

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.

Moving out of your apartment can be stressful and exhausting, especially if you want to get your security deposit back. In addition, you don’t want to leave any dirt, damage, or clutter that could cost you money or cause trouble with your landlord. That’s why it’s important to follow a checklist for moving house NZ that covers everything you need to do before you hand over the keys.

Here are some tips and tasks to help you make sure your apartment is spotless and ready for inspection.

Easy to Follow Checklist for Moving House in NZ

1. Start early and plan.

Don’t wait until the last minute to start cleaning your apartment. You’ll need enough time to do a thorough job and deal with any issues that might come up. Plan and schedule some days or hours for cleaning before your move-out date. You can also enlist the help of friends or family members or hire a professional for house cleaning services if you can afford it.

2. Gather your supplies and equipment.

You’ll need basic cleaning supplies and tools to get your apartment in shape. Here are some items you might need:

• Vacuum cleaner
• Broom and dustpan
• Mop and bucket
• Cleaning cloths and rags
• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Bathroom cleaner
• Kitchen cleaner
• Oven cleaner
• Bleach
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Magic eraser
• Gloves
• Trash bags

3. Follow the landlord’s instructions and expectations.

Before you start cleaning, check your lease agreement and any move-out instructions from your landlord. They might have specific requirements or preferences for how you should clean your apartment and what you should leave behind or take with you.

For example, some landlords might ask you to leave the curtains or blinds, while others might want you to remove them. Some landlords might provide a checklist for moving house NZ that you can follow.

4. Clean room by room.

The best way to tackle your move-out cleaning is to go room by room and focus on one area at a time. Start with the harder or dirtier rooms, such as the kitchen and bathroom, and work your way to the easier ones, such as the living room and bedroom. Here are some common tasks for each room:

Kitchen:

1. Clean the stove, oven, microwave, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, sink, countertops, cabinets, drawers, shelves, backsplash, floor, and trash can.
2. Remove any food, dishes, utensils, appliances, or personal items that belong to you.

Bathroom:

1. Clean the toilet, sink, shower, tub, faucet, mirror, tiles, grout, floor, and trash can.
2. Remove any toiletries, towels, rugs, or personal items that belong to you.

Living room:

1. Vacuum the carpet or mop the floor, and dust the furniture, shelves, lamps, ceiling fan, blinds, windowsills, baseboards, and vents.
2. Clean the windows and glass doors.
3. Remove any stains or marks from the walls or doors.
4. Remove any bedding, pillows, clothes, hangers, or personal items that belong to you.

Bedroom:

1. Vacuum the carpet or mop the floor, and dust the furniture, shelves, lamps, ceiling fan, blinds, windowsills, baseboards, and vents.
2. Clean the windows and glass doors.
3. Remove any stains or marks from the walls or doors.
4. Remove any bedding, pillows, clothes, hangers, or personal items that belong to you.

5. Do a final walkthrough and inspection.

Once you’ve finished cleaning your apartment, do a final walkthrough and inspection of every room. Make sure you haven’t missed anything or left anything behind.

1. Take pictures or videos of your clean apartment as proof of its condition. Then, compare it with the pictures or videos you took when you moved in.
2. Ask your landlord to join you for the final inspection and sign off on your security deposit refund.
3. If not, send them your pictures or videos and request a receipt for your deposit.

FAQs

1. Do I need to hire a professional cleaning company to get my security deposit back?

No, you don’t need to hire a professional cleaning company. You can clean the property yourself, as long as you follow a move-out cleaning checklist.

2. Do I need to hire a professional cleaning company to get my security deposit back?

If you don’t clean the property thoroughly, you risk losing a significant amount of your security deposit. Your landlord may deduct the cost of cleaning from your security deposit.

3. Can I use any cleaning products?

You should use cleaning products that are safe for the surfaces you’re cleaning. Avoid using abrasive or harsh cleaners that can damage the property.

4. What should I do if there are stains on the carpet or upholstery?

If there are stains on the carpet or upholstery, you should try to remove them using a stain remover. If the stains are stubborn, you may need to hire a professional carpet cleaner.

5. How long should I give myself to clean the property?

You should give yourself at least a week to clean the property thoroughly. Don’t leave the cleaning until the last minute, as it may take longer than you anticipate.

Let’s Wrap It Up

By following this checklist for moving house NZ, you can increase your chances of returning your security deposit and leaving on good terms with your landlord.

Looking for professional domestic cleaning services for moving out? Look no further than Premium Clean! Our team of experienced cleaners will ensure your property is left immaculate, helping you get your security deposit back.

Julie Salvatierra

Julie is a passionate writer a mother of three kids and a dedicated cleaning enthusiast, eager to share valuable insights and practical tips on maintaining a clean and organized home. With a deep understanding of the challenges of maintaining a tidy living space, Julie has spent years honing its expertise in cleaning methods, organizing techniques, and sustainable practices.