Move-Out Cleaning Checklist: What Landlords Look For

When you’re preparing to leave a rental, there’s a lot on your plate. You’re packing up your belongings, updating your address, and organizing the logistics of the move itself. Yet, one detail can make or break your relationship with the landlord — the cleanliness of the property you’re leaving behind.

Many tenants think a quick vacuum and a wiped countertop are enough. However, landlords inspect every corner, looking for any signs of dirt, wear, or neglect. If you want your full deposit back, a detailed move-out cleaning isn’t optional — it’s essential. Below, we explain what landlords truly expect and how Brisola Cleaning helps you meet — and exceed — those expectations.

Focus on the Kitchen: Appliances, Cabinets, and Floors

The kitchen is one of the first areas landlords evaluate, and it’s often where tenants lose points. Most property managers expect appliances to be spotless — not just wiped. That means cleaning the inside of the oven, removing grease from the range hood, and scrubbing the refrigerator shelves. Even microwave stains or food crumbs in the dishwasher may raise red flags.

In addition, landlords check inside cabinets and drawers. You may have emptied them, but if crumbs or sticky residue remain, it gives the impression of poor upkeep. Floors should be swept, mopped, and free of stains or damage. If a tenant leaves behind spills or food marks, the kitchen might require professional attention before it can be shown to new renters — and that cost could come from your deposit.

Bathrooms Must Be Sanitized, Not Just Cleaned

Bathrooms leave a strong impression on anyone doing a walkthrough. If there’s even a hint of mildew or lingering odors, landlords will take note. That’s why you should go beyond surface-level cleaning. Toilets, sinks, and bathtubs need a full sanitization — especially around the base, behind the fixtures, and along the grout lines.

It’s also important to polish mirrors, clean glass shower doors, and check for buildup on faucets. Don’t forget to wipe around light switches and door handles. These small touches create a sense of cleanliness and care — something that landlords notice immediately during inspection.

Landlords Will Check the Floors, Walls, and Baseboards

It’s easy to overlook the edges of a room when you’re focused on packing, but landlords don’t. They walk around slowly, paying close attention to floor corners, baseboards, and the spaces behind doors. Dust, scuff marks, or hair accumulation sends a message that the tenant rushed through the cleaning.

If the unit has carpets, vacuum them thoroughly — especially where furniture once stood. Hardwood, laminate, or tile should be swept and mopped using proper products to avoid streaks or damage. A pro cleaning team like Brisola doesn’t miss these details. We use the right tools and techniques to restore every room to a clean, ready-to-rent condition.

Little Details That Make a Big Difference

Small tasks like emptying all trash bins, cleaning inside closets, and removing wall hooks or stickers may not take long — but they matter. Leaving garbage behind or holes in the walls might seem minor, but they can delay move-in for the next tenant. As a result, your landlord may charge for repairs or extra cleaning.

Instead, schedule your cleaning after moving out all furniture. This allows for a more complete clean and ensures nothing gets missed. At Brisola Cleaning, we often work with property managers in Charlotte who give us their inspection checklist in advance. That means we know exactly what they expect — and we deliver it.

Leave With Confidence — Let Brisola Handle It

Moving is stressful enough. You shouldn’t have to worry about scrubbing the oven or scrubbing tile grout on top of everything else. By hiring professionals like Brisola Cleaning, you protect your deposit and your peace of mind.

We don’t just clean — we deep clean. And more importantly, we understand what landlords want to see. Our move-out cleaning services are tailored to renters who need fast, detailed, and reliable service with zero hassle. We show up on time, bring everything we need, and leave the space fresh and ready for inspection.

What’s Included in a Brisola Move-Out Cleaning