Move-out cleaning: what to check before handing back the keys
The boxes have gone, but the apartment is not quite ready to hand back. There is dust where the sofa stood, food in the fridge and a forgotten shelf of belongings. Schedule cleaning after the move and before meeting the landlord.
Agree what is being handed back
Ask the landlord what condition they expect and what should remain. Check furniture, keys and leftover household supplies. Keep the agreement together so these decisions do not fall to moving day.
Cleaning removes dirt; it does not repair chips, scratches or damaged finishes. Identify those separately. Scrubbing harder is not a way to conceal wear.
Empty anything booked for cleaning inside
If cupboard or fridge interiors are included in your booking, remove belongings and food first. Check high shelves, under-bed drawers and spaces behind doors. Items left behind may reasonably be treated as things that should stay untouched.
Decide who will remove packaging and unwanted furniture. Do not assume boxes or bulky waste will be taken away as part of cleaning.
- Move personal belongings before the visit.
- Identify items that stay with the apartment.
- Agree oven, fridge and cupboard interiors separately.
- Mention if water or electricity has already been disconnected.
Describe the apartment after the move
LumaClean offers a move-in and move-out format. Explain whether the apartment is empty, which furniture remains and when the handover is planned. Photographs after the move show the work more clearly than older furnished views.
Windows, the balcony and appliance interiors are separate selections. Mention renovation residue, mould or leak damage before booking; these are outside ordinary move-out cleaning.
Check the agreed areas
Walk through the kitchen, bathroom and any areas specifically included in the booking. Check for forgotten belongings and return keys as agreed. Photographs can keep a clear record of the apartment at handover.
Cleaning cannot guarantee the return of a rental deposit. That depends on your agreement with the landlord and the overall condition of the property. The cleaning team's responsibility is the agreed cleaning work.
