by Mabel Jane

Created on: May 28, 2010

There is a long to-do list that accompanies the move-out process. And there is one to-do that is a must when it comes to clearing out your stuff for the next renter: cleaning the apartment.

What makes this to-do list item so essential when moving out of an apartment is the security deposit, which is a (usually) large monetary amount given to the landlord when you first move in, basically assuring that you won’t damage the house. If the apartment is in good condition, you can expect to get most, if not all, of your security deposit back. If you leave the place in ruins, you can kiss that extra money for the month goodbye. There is not much one can do if there are severe damages like busted windows, dented walls, scratch floors or broken appliances. However, to escape some fines and get in the good graces of the landlord, it is imperative to clean the entire apartment before moving out.

Way before moving out—in fact, the day you move in—it would be a good idea to take pictures and notes of the way each room in the apartment looks and any damages that are already there. Provide copies of the pictures and the list to the landlord so that he or she knows what to charge you for. Make sure to keep these documents until after you receive your security deposit back. The list and pictures will also help remind you of what the apartment should look like when you leave. Even if the apartment was dirty when you got there, it is always better to leave it clean. The landlord will appreciate your work and may even be more graceful and generous when reviewing any damages or charges.

In order to save you time and frustration, it would be ideal to clean the apartment after everything is moved out. Movers may come in with muddy shoes or dirty equipment and scratches and nicks may happen when you are moving large furniture. If you clean before everything is moved out of the room, chances are you will have to go through and clean again. Save yourself some time and energy. Have the movers come the day or a few days before you plan to be completely out of the house. That way, you have a day or two to clean every surface without you having to move boxes or worrying if something will happen to your clean, shiny floor or bright, white walls. You can also empty and clean one room at a time if you do not want to do it all in one day.

To avoid confusion and the age-old question, "Did I clean that already?," clean in sections. Start at the top (second floor) and work your

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