Most deposit deductions come down to the same handful of overlooked spots. Go room by room with this list before your final walkthrough, and you'll cover what landlords actually check for.
Kitchen
- Wipe down and degrease the inside and outside of the oven, stovetop, and range hood.
- Empty and wipe out the refrigerator and freezer, unplugged with the door propped open.
- Clean inside every cabinet and drawer, not just the visible surfaces.
- Descale the sink and faucet, and disinfect countertops.
Bathrooms
- Scrub grout, tile, and the inside of the toilet, tank, and base.
- Remove soap scum and hard water buildup from the shower and tub.
- Clean the exhaust fan cover and mirror to a streak-free finish.
Living areas and bedrooms
- Vacuum and, if needed, professionally clean carpets — this is the single biggest deposit factor for most rentals.
- Wipe down baseboards, window sills, and interior window glass.
- Clean closet interiors and any built-in shelving.
Final walkthrough details
- Light switches and door handles — often skipped, easily noticed.
- Air vents and light fixtures — dust accumulates here more than people expect.
- Walls — spot-clean scuffs, especially near doorways and light switches.
If that list feels like a lot for moving week, our Move-Out/In Cleaning Service covers all of it, including cabinet sanitizing and a final walkthrough check, so the deposit conversation is one less thing to worry about.