Why move-out cleaning matters
In Florida, landlords can deduct cleaning costs from your security deposit if the unit is not left clean. A thorough move-out clean is often the difference between getting your full deposit back and losing a few hundred dollars. This checklist covers what property managers actually inspect.
Every room
Walls: wipe off scuffs and marks (a magic eraser handles most of them). Baseboards: wipe down — they collect a surprising amount of dust. Windows: clean the glass inside, plus sills and tracks. Light fixtures and ceiling fans: dust them. Outlets and switch plates: wipe clean. Closets: empty, sweep, and wipe the shelves. Floors: vacuum carpets and mop hard floors last, working toward the door.
Kitchen
The kitchen gets the hardest inspection. Clean inside the oven — baked-on grease is the number one deposit deduction. Clean the stovetop and drip pans. Wipe inside all cabinets and drawers. Clean inside the refrigerator and freezer — check with your landlord whether they want the fridge left on or off, since policies differ. Scrub the sink and faucet. Mop the floor, including under where the fridge sits if you can pull it out.
Bathrooms
Scrub the tub, shower, and tile — soap scum and mildew are what inspectors look for. Clean the toilet inside and out, including the base and behind it. Scrub the sink and countertop. Clean the mirror. Wipe the medicine cabinet inside and out. Mop the floor. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.
Final steps
Remove all trash and personal items — including from balconies, patios, and storage areas. Patch small nail holes with spackle if your lease expects it. Take photos of every room after cleaning, with timestamps. Photos are your proof if a deposit dispute comes up later.
Should you hire it out?
Move-out cleaning is heavy, detail-driven work, and it has to happen on a deadline — usually between your move and the final walkthrough. Many renters hire a cleaning service for the move-out clean because professionals know exactly what inspectors check and bring their own supplies. The cost is often less than the deposit money at stake.
Call (301) 679-9193 or send the form for a free quote.