Move-Out Cleaning Checklist: Get Your Full Deposit Back
April 25, 2026 5 min readBy Lumen Cleaning Team
Landlords in California can legally withhold your deposit for cleaning that goes beyond ‘normal wear and tear.’ After cleaning move-outs across Los Angeles and Orange County, here are the exact items property managers inspect.
Kitchen
- Inside and outside of oven, including racks and broiler pan
- Inside refrigerator, freezer, and behind/under the unit
- Inside microwave and dishwasher
- Degrease range hood and vent filter
- Inside all cabinets and drawers
Bathrooms
- Descale shower doors, tile, and grout
- Scrub toilet base and behind the bowl
- Wipe inside vanity and medicine cabinet
- Polish mirrors and chrome fixtures
Living Areas & Bedrooms
- Wipe baseboards, door frames, and switch plates
- Spot-clean walls and remove nail holes
- Vacuum/shampoo carpets (or refinish hardwood as needed)
- Clean inside closets and shelves
Often-Forgotten Spots that Cost Deposits
- Window tracks and sills
- Inside the laundry hookups
- Patio, balcony, and garage floors
- Light fixture glass covers
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I hire a professional move-out cleaner?
If your deposit is more than $500, hiring a professional almost always pays for itself. Most LA property managers will deduct $300–$800 if cleaning is incomplete.
How long does a professional move-out clean take?
1-bedroom: 3–4 hours. 2-bedroom: 4–6 hours. 3+ bedroom homes: 6–10 hours with a team.