Moving out of a NYC apartment is stressful enough without worrying about whether your landlord is going to dock your deposit because of a grease stain behind the stove. Here's the complete checklist we use for move-out cleanings — the same one that's helped hundreds of clients get their full deposits back.
Kitchen
The kitchen is where landlords look hardest. Don't skip anything.
- ✓Clean inside and outside of oven (including racks)
- ✓Degrease stovetop and burner grates
- ✓Wipe down all cabinet fronts and inside empty cabinets
- ✓Clean inside the refrigerator and freezer
- ✓Scrub the sink and polish the faucet
- ✓Wipe down countertops, backsplash, and behind small appliances
- ✓Clean the microwave inside and out
- ✓Run the dishwasher empty with vinegar (if applicable)
- ✓Sweep and mop the floor, including under the stove and fridge
Bathroom
Bathrooms in NYC apartments see a lot of moisture. Mold and hard water stains are the biggest issues.
- ✓Scrub the tub/shower including grout lines
- ✓Clean the toilet — bowl, seat, base, and behind
- ✓Polish the sink, mirror, and all chrome fixtures
- ✓Wipe down the medicine cabinet inside and out
- ✓Clean the exhaust fan cover
- ✓Mop the floor including behind the toilet
- ✓Remove any mold or mildew from caulking
Every Room
These apply to every single room in the apartment:
- ✓Dust all light fixtures and ceiling fans
- ✓Wipe down all baseboards
- ✓Clean inside all closets (shelves, rods, floors)
- ✓Wash all windows (inside)
- ✓Clean window sills and tracks
- ✓Wipe down all light switches and door handles
- ✓Patch small nail holes with spackle
- ✓Sweep/vacuum and mop all floors
- ✓Dust radiators and radiator covers
The Details That Get Deposits Back
Landlords and management companies know every trick. The things that most people miss — and that cost you money — are the baseboards, the inside of the oven, the window tracks, and the bathroom grout. If you don't have time to do it yourself (and honestly, who does while also moving?), this is where hiring a professional move-out cleaning pays for itself. A $200–$400 cleaning is a lot cheaper than losing a $2,000+ security deposit.
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