Your security deposit is real money — in Arizona, that can mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars at stake. Landlords have strict standards, and even a near-perfect unit can result in deductions for things most tenants overlook. This checklist covers everything your landlord will inspect.
Kitchen: The Hardest Room
The kitchen is where most move-out deductions happen. Landlords check inside the oven, under the burners, inside the refrigerator (including the drip pan), and the inside of all cabinets and drawers. A baked-on oven alone can cost $100–$200 in deductions.
- Clean inside oven, broiler, and burner pans
- Degrease range hood and replace or clean the filter
- Clean inside refrigerator and freezer, including shelves and door seals
- Wipe all cabinet and drawer interiors
- Clean dishwasher interior, filter, and door seal
- Sanitize sink and disposal
Bathrooms: Inspection-Level Standards
Grout, caulk, and the areas behind the toilet are landlord favorites for deductions. These areas are easy to miss during regular cleaning but stand out clearly on inspection day.
- Scrub all grout lines until visibly clean
- Clean toilet base, tank, behind the bowl
- Wipe exhaust fan cover
- Clean mirror, fixtures, and shower doors
- Check and clean the area behind and under toilet
Floors, Walls & Windows
Scuff marks on walls are normal wear and tear in most states, but actual dirt, stains, or damage is not. Wipe walls with a damp microfiber cloth. For windows, clean both inside and outside surfaces and clean the window tracks — these are almost always ignored and easy for landlords to spot.
Final Walk-Through Items
- Vacuum and mop all floors, including inside closets
- Wipe all light switches and outlet covers
- Clean all doors and door frames
- Vacuum all window sills and tracks
- Remove all nails/screws and patch holes
- Wipe down all baseboards
- Replace any burnt-out light bulbs
Professional Move-Out Clean
Our move-out cleaning service covers every item on this list and comes with a landlord satisfaction guarantee. Many of our clients get their full deposit back after booking us. Given the cost of a professional clean versus a potential deposit deduction, it's almost always worth it.