Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for York Region Renters

Moving out? Your security deposit is on the line, and landlords in New Market, Aurora, and across York Region take move-out cleanliness seriously. Here's exactly what you need to clean to get every dollar of that deposit back.

We've handled hundreds of move-out cleans in the area, and we've seen what landlords actually check during final inspections. This isn't a guess—this is the checklist that consistently results in full deposit returns.

Why Move-Out Cleaning Is Different

Move-out cleaning isn't regular cleaning. The standard is higher because you're not just cleaning for yourself—you're cleaning to meet someone else's expectations. And those expectations usually include areas you've been ignoring for months (or years).

The reality? Landlords expect the unit to be in the same condition it was when you moved in, minus normal wear and tear. "Clean" isn't good enough—it needs to be "move-in ready" clean.

Start With Walls and Ceilings

Most people forget to look up. Don't be most people.

Kitchen: Where Landlords Look Closest

The kitchen is where most security deposit disputes happen. Grease, food residue, and appliance grime accumulate over time, and landlords know it. This is where you need to be thorough.

Kitchen Surfaces:

• Clean countertops and backsplash (remove all stains and grease)
• Scrub sink until it shines (including faucet and handles)
• Clean inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers
• Wipe down cabinet fronts (grease buildup is common)
• Detail clean all hardware (handles, knobs)

Appliances (This Is Critical):

• Oven: Remove all racks and clean thoroughly. Scrub interior, door, and glass. Don't forget the broiler drawer.
• Stovetop: Remove burners/grates and clean underneath. Scrub drip pans if applicable.
• Refrigerator: Empty completely, remove all shelves and drawers, wash them, then clean interior walls. Don't forget the freezer.
• Microwave: Clean inside, outside, and underneath if built-in.
• Dishwasher: Run a cleaning cycle, wipe door seals, clean filter.
• Range Hood: Clean or replace filters, wipe down exterior, scrub underside.

Bathrooms: Deep Clean Required

Bathrooms take the most elbow grease. Hard water stains, soap scum, and mildew don't disappear with a quick wipe-down.

Floors Throughout

Floors show everything. Landlords will notice dirt, stains, and damage immediately.

• Hardwood/Laminate: Vacuum thoroughly, then mop with appropriate cleaner. Buff if possible.
• Tile: Scrub grout lines, mop with tile cleaner, ensure no residue.
• Carpet: Vacuum in multiple directions, treat stains, consider professional steam cleaning.
• Baseboards: Wipe down all baseboards in every room (they're always dirty).

Windows and Window Tracks

Window tracks are dust and dirt magnets. Landlords check them because most tenants skip them.

• Vacuum window tracks and sills
• Scrub tracks with a brush and cleaning solution
• Clean interior window glass (both sides if accessible)
• Wipe down window frames and locks
• Clean or dust blinds/curtain rods

Don't Forget These Commonly Missed Areas

These are the spots that catch people by surprise during final inspections:

• Inside closets (yes, including the top shelf)
• Light switch plates and outlet covers
• Door frames and the tops of doors
• Inside kitchen drawers and under drawer organizers
• Heating vents and cold air returns
• The area behind the washing machine and dryer
• Balcony or patio (if applicable)
• Storage locker or garage space

The Professional vs. DIY Decision

Let's be real: move-out cleaning is exhausting. You're already stressed about moving, packing, and coordinating logistics. The last thing you want to do is spend 8-10 hours scrubbing.

Here's the math most of our Bradford and Aurora clients use:

• Your time: 8-10 hours of hard physical work
• Your stress: Worrying whether you did enough to get your deposit back
• Your risk: Landlord finds something you missed, keeps part of deposit

Professional move-out cleaning: 4-6 hours of our time, guaranteed thorough clean, $250-400 depending on size. If your security deposit is $1,000+, professional cleaning is insurance that you'll get it all back.

Timing Your Move-Out Clean

Don't clean too early. The ideal time is after everything is moved out but before you return the keys. An empty unit is much easier to clean thoroughly, and you won't risk dirtying anything between cleaning and inspection.

Most landlords give 24-48 hours after move-out for final inspection. Book your cleaning for the day after your movers come, then schedule the final walk-through.

What If You're Short on Time?

If you absolutely can't do it all yourself and can't afford a full professional clean, prioritize these areas:

1. Kitchen appliances (oven, fridge, stovetop)
2. Bathroom deep clean
3. Floors throughout
4. Windows and window tracks

These are the areas landlords scrutinize most. If you only have time to tackle four things, make it these four.

Document Everything

After you clean, take photos or video of every room from multiple angles. Get close-ups of appliances, bathrooms, and any areas that were previously damaged. This documentation protects you if there's a dispute about deposit deductions.

The Bottom Line

Move-out cleaning is tedious, time-consuming, and physically demanding. But it's also the difference between getting your full security deposit back or losing hundreds (or thousands) of dollars.

You have two options: dedicate a full day (or weekend) to doing it yourself using this checklist, or hire professionals who do this every day and guarantee the results.

Either way, don't skip it. That deposit money is yours—make sure you get it back.