Moving out of your rental property requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure you receive your full security deposit back and maintain a positive relationship with your landlord. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to do before your move-out date, from giving proper notice to completing your final cleaning and inspection.
Move-out timeline for tenants
Please refer to the terms of your lease agreement to determine the specific move-out timeline required for your unit. All residents are expected to follow the notice period and scheduling guidelines outlined in their lease.
Deep Cleaning Checklist
Thorough cleaning is essential for getting your full security deposit back. The property should be returned in the same condition as when you moved in, minus normal wear and tear.
Kitchen
- Clean inside and outside of all appliances (refrigerator, oven, microwave, dishwasher)
- Scrub countertops, backsplash, and sink
- Clean inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers
- Mop floors and clean baseboards
- Replace any burnt-out light bulbs
- Clean range hood and exhaust fan
Bathrooms
- Scrub toilet inside and out, including behind and around base
- Clean shower/tub, including grout and fixtures
- Clean mirrors and medicine cabinet
- Scrub sink, faucet, and countertop
- Mop floors and clean baseboards
- Clean exhaust fan and replace bulbs if needed
Living Areas
- Vacuum or sweep all floors thoroughly
- Clean all windows and window sills
- Dust all surfaces, including ceiling fans
- Clean light fixtures and replace bulbs
- Wipe down walls and remove any marks
- Clean baseboards and door frames
Bedrooms
- Vacuum carpets or clean hardwood floors
- Clean inside and outside of all closets
- Dust all surfaces and light fixtures
- Clean windows and window sills
- Wipe down walls and remove any nail holes
- Clean baseboards and door frames
Professional Cleaning Services
Consider hiring professional cleaners for:
- • Carpet cleaning (especially if you have pets)
- • Deep oven and appliance cleaning
- • Window cleaning (interior and exterior)
- • Tile and grout deep cleaning
- • Move-out cleaning packages (typically $200-500)
Utility Disconnection Schedule
Properly timing utility disconnections ensures you have power and water for final cleaning while avoiding unnecessary charges after you've moved out.
| Utility | Provider | Phone | Notice Required | Disconnect Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | Georgia Power | (888) 660-5890 | 2-3 business days | Day after move-out | Schedule for day after move-out to ensure power during cleaning |
| Natural Gas | Atlanta Gas Light | (877) 427-4321 | 2-3 business days | Day after move-out | Required for safety inspection if applicable |
| Water & Sewer | City of Centerville | (478) 953-4200 | 1-2 business days | Day of move-out | Needed for final cleaning, disconnect after inspection |
| Internet/Cable | Various | Provider specific | 1 week | Day of move-out | Return equipment to avoid charges |
Utility Disconnection Tips
- • Schedule disconnections for the day after your move-out to ensure power for cleaning
- • Request final meter readings to avoid estimated bills
- • Return all equipment (cable boxes, modems) to avoid charges
- • Keep confirmation numbers for all disconnection requests
- • Arrange for final bills to be sent to your new address
Protecting Your Security Deposit
Your security deposit represents a significant amount of money. Following these strategies will maximize your chances of receiving your full deposit back.
Document Everything
CriticalTake detailed photos and videos of the property condition before and after cleaning
Follow Lease Requirements
CriticalReview your lease for specific cleaning and repair requirements
Professional Cleaning
RecommendedConsider hiring professional cleaners for carpets and deep cleaning
Minor Repairs
ImportantFix small holes, scratches, and other minor damage yourself
Keep Receipts
ImportantSave all receipts for cleaning supplies, repairs, and professional services
Communicate Issues
CriticalReport any problems to management immediately, don't wait until move-out
Moving Day Logistics
Coordinate your moving day activities to ensure everything goes smoothly and you meet all requirements.
Moving Day Schedule
- Early Morning:Final packing and preparation
- Mid-Morning:Movers arrive and begin loading
- Afternoon:Final cleaning and touch-ups
- Late Afternoon:Final inspection and key return
Key Return Process
- Return all keys (house, mailbox, amenities)
- Return garage door remotes and access cards
- Get receipt for returned items
- Confirm forwarding address for deposit return
- Ask about deposit return timeline
