For move-out cleaning, you should first refer to the lease requirements for handing over the property, thoroughly clear out personal items, and focus on cleaning kitchen grease, bathroom water stains, appliance interiors, and floors. Remember that cleaning cannot repair material damage or aging; you should record stains and actual damage separately and take photos to retain evidence of the handover.
Should I read the lease or find a cleaning company first?
First, read the lease, the move-in inventory list, and the handover requirements confirmed by both parties, then list the cleaning scope. Not every lease has the same professional cleaning requirements, and website articles cannot replace individual legal advice.
If the landlord requests specific cleaning or documents, try to confirm them in writing before booking to avoid adding appliance interior cleaning or other items only after the work is finished.
To what extent should personal items be cleared?
Remove food, trash, and personal items, and empty drawers and the refrigerator to clearly confirm landlord items and cleanable areas. Disposal of large furniture is not necessarily included in general cleaning.
- List items reserved for the landlord
- Clear out food, toiletries, and trash from cabinets
- Confirm the sequence of moving out furniture versus cleaning
- If the refrigerator needs to be turned off or defrosted, arrange the food and power supply according to the manufacturer's instructions first
How should I make a list for the kitchen, bathroom, and appliances?
First, distinguish between outer shell wiping, detachable component washing, and internal disassembly and cleaning. Deep cleaning for ovens, refrigerators, or range hoods should not be assumed to be included just by the phrase "whole-house cleaning."
| Location | Items to check before handing over the property |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | Stove surface, wall grease, kitchen cabinet interiors/exteriors, and sink |
| Bathroom | Sink edges, shower screen water stains, tracks, and drain surfaces |
| Landlord's appliances | Clear out food, reachable interior, and original accessories |
| Bedrooms and living room | Inside cabinets, window channels, door frames, baseboards, and floors |
How do I distinguish between stains and damage?
Grease, water scale, and dust accumulation can potentially be cleaned; wooden floor expansion, glass etch marks, damaged caulking, and scratches may require repairs. Do not use stronger acids, solvents, or abrasive tools in pursuit of "returning like-new."
For disputed areas, take photos first and communicate with the landlord. A cleaning receipt can state that the service was arranged, but it cannot single-handedly determine the outcome of a deposit dispute.
How do I keep records after completion?
When the unit is empty and lighting is sufficient, take panoramic photos of each room through to close-ups of appliances and stains, retaining the original files and confirmation of the service scope. Avoid exposing keys, access codes, or other tenant information while photographing.
- Take panoramic photos of each room after cleaning
- Take follow-up shots of the kitchen, bathroom, inside cabinets, and appliances
- Record existing damage that could not be handled
- Confirm inspection and key return method with the handover contact person
