Move-Out Checklist (Tenant Instructions)
Tentunit Template Library · Version 1.0 · [TEMPLATE — review before use]
Important: This is a general-purpose template provided for convenience under the Tentunit Templates Disclaimer & Jurisdiction Notice. It is not legal advice and is not state-specific unless expressly labeled. Landlord–tenant requirements (notice periods, day counts, service methods, disclosures) vary by jurisdiction and change over time. Verify against current local law — or consult a licensed attorney — before use. Complete every [BRACKETED FIELD] and delete instructions in italics before sending.
Property: [PROPERTY ADDRESS, UNIT #] Tenant: [TENANT NAME(S)] Move-out date: [MOVE-OUT DATE]
Send this checklist to the tenant once notice is given. It helps ensure a smooth move-out and the fastest possible return of the security deposit.
Before Your Move-Out Date
- Written notice given to landlord on [NOTICE DATE], per the lease’s [NUMBER OF DAYS REQUIRED IN YOUR JURISDICTION]-day notice requirement (commonly 30–60 days for month-to-month tenancies, depending on state and lease terms).
- Utilities: schedule final readings and transfer/stop service effective [MOVE-OUT DATE] — electric ([PROVIDER]), gas ([PROVIDER]), water/sewer ([PROVIDER]), internet ([PROVIDER]). Do not disconnect utilities before the move-out inspection.
- Forwarding address provided in writing to [MANAGER NAME/EMAIL] — required for your deposit return and any correspondence.
- Mail forwarding set up with USPS.
- Renter’s insurance updated or canceled effective your move-out date.
- Move-out inspection scheduled for [INSPECTION DATE/TIME] (in some jurisdictions you have the right to be present or to a pre-move-out inspection — ask us).
- All keys, fobs, remotes, and parking passes returned to [RETURN LOCATION/METHOD] by [DATE/TIME]. Rent responsibility may continue until keys are returned.
Cleaning Standards
The unit should be returned in the same condition as at move-in, less normal wear and tear. In general: all personal belongings and trash removed; floors swept/vacuumed/mopped; appliances cleaned inside and out (including oven and refrigerator — leave fridge on); kitchen and bath surfaces degreased and disinfected; walls spot-cleaned; nail holes [FILL / LEAVE AS-IS PER LEASE]; carpets [PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED WITH RECEIPT / VACUUMED] (check your lease); light bulbs working; smoke detectors left in place.
Room-by-Room Checklist
| Item | Done | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry/hallways — floors, walls, closet emptied | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Living room — floors, windows/sills, blinds dusted | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Kitchen — counters, sink, cabinets emptied & wiped | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Oven/stovetop/range hood degreased | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Refrigerator emptied, cleaned, left running | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Dishwasher/microwave cleaned | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Bedrooms — floors, closets emptied, walls spot-cleaned | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Bathrooms — tub/shower, toilet, sink, mirror, exhaust fan | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Laundry area — lint trap, behind machines | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Windows/doors — locked, screens in place | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Patio/balcony/garage/storage cleared | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Trash/recycling bins emptied; no items left at curb improperly | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| All trash and personal property removed from unit | [ ] | [NOTES] |
| Keys, fobs, remotes, parking passes returned | [ ] | [NOTES] |
Security Deposit Return
Your deposit, less any lawful deductions (unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning per the lease), will be returned with an itemized statement within [NUMBER OF DAYS REQUIRED IN YOUR JURISDICTION] days of move-out (commonly 14–45 days depending on state), sent to the forwarding address you provide. Questions: [MANAGER NAME], [PHONE], [EMAIL].
Provided by Tentunit — see the Templates Disclaimer & Jurisdiction Notice at help.tentunit.com/policies/templates-disclaimer.