Move-Out Cleaning Checklist: How to Get Your Full Security Deposit Back

In the Bay Area, security deposits are often $3,000 or more — and cleaning is the #1 reason landlords deduct from them. California law allows deductions only for cleaning beyond normal wear and tear, so a truly clean unit protects your money. Here's the checklist professional cleaners (and picky landlords) actually use.

Kitchen

• Inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers
• Inside the oven — including racks and the door glass
• Inside and behind the refrigerator (pull it out if possible)
• Stovetop, range hood, and grease filter
• Dishwasher interior and rubber seal
• Sink, faucet, and garbage disposal
• Countertops, backsplash, and baseboards

Bathrooms

• Scrub shower/tub, tile grout, and glass doors until free of soap scum
• Remove any mold or mildew from caulking
• Toilet — inside, outside, base, and behind
• Vanity, mirror, light fixtures, and exhaust fan
• Floors mopped, including corners and behind the toilet

Bedrooms and living areas

• Dust all surfaces, ceiling fans, and light fixtures
• Wipe down doors, door frames, and light switches
• Clean inside closets, including shelves and rods
• Windows, tracks, and blinds
• Vacuum carpets (consider a professional carpet clean for stains)
• Mop hard floors and wipe baseboards
• Remove all nails and patch small holes

Don't forget

• Garage, balcony, or patio swept
• All trash removed from the unit
• Take dated photos of every room after cleaning — your proof if there's a dispute

Short on time?

A professional move-out clean typically costs $250–$500 in the Bay Area — far less than most deposit deductions. We follow exactly this checklist and know what local landlords look for. Request a free quote and hand back the keys with confidence.