✅ End of Tenancy Checklist: How to Get Your Full Deposit Back
Moving out of a rental property? We’re here to help make the process smooth, fair, and stress-free—for both you and your landlord.
The goal is simple: we want to return 100% of your deposit to you.
The best way to make that happen is by leaving the property in the same clean, cared-for condition it was in when you moved in.
Remember: It’s more work for a landlord to raise a claim against your deposit. It’s a process everyone would rather avoid. Following the checklist below helps ensure everything goes smoothly and no one needs to go down that route.
🧼 Kitchen
- Clean all cupboards inside and out.
- Thoroughly clean the oven, hob, and extractor fan.
- Clean the washing machine, including the rubber seal and soap dispenser.
- Defrost and clean the fridge and freezer. (Leave doors open if switched off.)
- Clean the dishwasher and leave the door open.
- Replace extractor hood filter pad.
- Clean all extractor fan front pieces.
🛋️ All Rooms
- Vacuum carpets and mop all hard floors (vinyl/lino/tiles).
- Wipe down woodwork and walls to remove spills, scuffs, and handprints.
- Clean the inside and outside of all cupboards and wardrobes.
- Clean internal windows.
- Return any décor changes to their original condition and color (unless otherwise agreed).
- Fill holes and repaint to a professional standard. (Quick patch jobs aren’t enough.)
- Make sure all lightbulbs are working.
🛁 Bathrooms
- Clean all surfaces thoroughly.
- Clean the extractor fan front.
- Remove limescale from taps and clean any mould.
🌿 Outside Areas
- Clean windows (inside and outside if accessible).
- Mow the lawn, remove weeds, and sweep paths and driveways.
- Remove all rubbish and ensure recycling is ready for collection.
- Clean and empty bin stores, sheds, and the garage.
- If you had a garden waste bin and the subscription has expired, make sure it’s emptied.
💡 A Final Note
We respectfully advise that the landlord has the right to claim from your deposit for any damage or issues beyond general wear and tear.
But here’s the thing: no one wants to do that.
It takes time, paperwork, and costs for everyone involved.
If you complete the list above, you’ll be doing everything possible to avoid any issues—and your deposit should be returned in full.
Let’s make moving out a positive, hassle-free experience!
☎️ If you have any questions or want to book in a pre checkout meeting to get the top tips on your particular property please call our letting team today on 01748 834373 or email lets@lovepropertyuk.co.uk