Moving out of a rental in New Jersey comes with a long to-do list. Cleaning is one of the most important items, because the condition of the unit is part of your landlord’s final inspection. Use this checklist to cover every room.
Before you start
Read your lease for any specific cleaning requirements. Take photos of each room after cleaning, with dates, and keep them until your deposit is settled. New Jersey law generally requires landlords to return the deposit, minus any itemized deductions, within 30 days after the lease ends.
Kitchen
- Empty and wipe inside every cabinet and drawer
- Clean inside the refrigerator and freezer, then leave the doors ajar if unplugged
- Degrease the stovetop and clean inside the oven
- Clean the microwave inside and out
- Scrub the sink and faucet
- Wipe the backsplash and counters
Bathrooms
- Scrub the toilet, tub, shower and sink
- Remove soap scum and hard-water stains from glass
- Clean the mirror and medicine cabinet
- Wipe the vanity inside and out
- Mop the floor, including behind the toilet
Bedrooms and living areas
- Empty and wipe closets and shelves
- Wipe baseboards, door frames and light switches
- Dust window sills, tracks and blinds
- Remove nails and hooks only if your lease allows
- Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors
Don’t forget
- Inside the dishwasher and washing machine
- Light fixtures and ceiling fans
- Balcony, patio or storage unit
- Trash and recycling removed from the property
When to call a professional
If you are short on time, a professional move-out clean covers all of this in one visit. Carpets with stains or pet odors may need a separate carpet cleaning. Book the clean after your belongings are out, so the team can reach every corner.