You have probably been there, haven’t you? I’ve moved out at least four times in the past 5 years or so, and I’ve despised the whole ordeal, from beginning to end. Packing all our stuff, setting appointments, hiring moving services, and then setting expectations lower and lower once the day finally arrives.
There is one aspect that one usually takes for granted though, and that is cleaning your former home once before you leave. I know, I know, I’ve been there. You had good reasons to leave that place—and probably your previous landlord was such a pain—why should you care about leaving everything squeaky clean after you leave?
Well, there are actually good reasons. On the one hand, you want to get your deposit back, and whether you’re leaving the place exactly as you got it or not, your landlord would be more willing to give your deposit back if you give them a shining impression. On the flip side of that, an unattended place would make them more eager to look for reasons or details to hold you accountable for anything. Also, your landlord would probably be willing to give you a good reference whenever you’re moving again if you leave the place all shiny and clean.
Therefore, do yourself a favor and have a look at the following checklist, and keep it in mind for the next time you’re going through this annoying process again. It will save you some time and effort, and hopefully, you’ll be able to bring your whole deposit back in shining colors to your new home.