Moving out of a rental property comes with a long to-do list: packing, scheduling movers, setting up utilities at your new place. However, there’s one item many renters overlook until it’s too late: the final condition of the unit and the potential for cleaning charges.
It’s a common question among tenants: Can landlords charge for cleaning when you move out? The answer isn’t always simple. While landlords are allowed to maintain their properties and ensure they're clean and safe for new tenants, there are limitations to what they can charge for and when. Understanding the rules and your rights as a renter can help you avoid unexpected costs and get your full security deposit back.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about cleaning fees when your lease ends, from what’s allowed to what counts as normal wear and tear, and how to protect yourself.
Why Do Landlords Charge for Cleaning?
When a tenant moves out, landlords prepare the unit for the next resident. This includes fixing damage, performing inspections, and cleaning. If a property is left dirty or unsanitary, they may need to bring in professional cleaners to restore it to a livable, move-in-ready condition.
However, just because the unit needs a quick sweep or dusting doesn’t mean your landlord can automatically deduct cleaning costs from your deposit. Landlords are only allowed to charge if cleaning is necessary beyond what’s considered “normal wear and tear.”
What Is Considered Normal Wear and Tear?
Understanding what falls under normal wear and tear is crucial when it comes to move-out cleaning fees. Landlords cannot charge for cleaning or repairs related to the gradual, expected decline of a property over time.
Here are some common examples of what’s considered reasonable wear:
- Faded or lightly scuffed paint
- Worn carpet in high-traffic areas
- Slight discoloration on grout or caulking
- A few nail holes from hanging frames or décor
- Light dust on vents or baseboards
These are all expected outcomes of daily life in a rental unit and generally not the tenant’s financial responsibility.
On the other hand, excessive filth, negligence, or damage beyond day-to-day use can justify a cleaning charge. This includes things like pet waste left behind, grease-encrusted stoves, strong odors, stained carpets, or moldy showers. If the next tenant couldn’t reasonably move in without professional help, your landlord may be within their rights to deduct for cleaning.
So, Can a Landlord Charge for Cleaning?
Yes, but only if the cleaning is necessary due to excessive dirt or neglect beyond normal use. The key factors landlords consider are the extent of the cleaning required and how the property was left.
Charging a tenant for light dusting or a bit of soap scum is not legally justified. However, if the fridge still contains food, the carpet is visibly stained, or the bathroom hasn’t been scrubbed in months, that’s a different story.
Before issuing a charge, landlords must also follow proper procedures, which include documentation, providing an itemized list of deductions, and following any notice periods required by local or state laws.
How Much Do Move-Out Cleaning Fees Cost?
The cost of move-out cleaning depends on the size and condition of the unit and whether specialized services (like carpet or appliance cleaning) are required.
For an average apartment or rental home, move-out cleaning fees typically range from $90 to $500, but this can vary based on a few key factors:
- The overall size of the rental (a studio will cost less than a 3-bedroom home)
- The number of bathrooms and their condition
- Whether kitchen appliances require deep cleaning
- If there are pets and associated odors or hair to address
- The presence of carpet, blinds, or other harder-to-clean features
If a professional cleaning service is used, the average hourly rate generally falls between $25 and $50 per cleaner, depending on your location and the job's complexity.
Additional services like carpet cleaning may cost an extra $120 to $240, and specialized cleanings (like inside ovens or windows) may be added separately.
Some landlords include a non-refundable cleaning fee as part of the lease, while others may deduct cleaning charges from the security deposit if the property is not returned in acceptable condition. In either case, cleaning charges must be reasonable, clearly communicated, and well-documented.
Can Landlords Deduct Cleaning Fees from My Security Deposit?
In many cases, yes. If your lease doesn’t include a separate cleaning fee and you leave the property in a condition that requires more than standard cleaning, the landlord can deduct the cost from your security deposit.
However, landlords are required to provide an itemized breakdown of any deductions made. They must explain the reason for each charge, provide supporting documentation (like receipts or invoices), and return the remaining portion of your deposit within the legal timeline—often 30 days or less after move-out, depending on your state’s laws.
If they charge for cleaning without evidence or attempt to deduct for minor wear and tear, you may have grounds to dispute the charge.
What About Upfront Cleaning Fees?
Some landlords choose to include a flat-rate cleaning fee as part of the lease agreement. This fee is typically collected at move-in and is not refundable, regardless of the condition in which you leave the unit.
It’s important to review your lease carefully to see if this applies to you. Upfront cleaning fees should be clearly labeled as separate from the security deposit and should outline what services they are intended to cover.
If you’ve paid an upfront cleaning fee, the landlord may still charge you additional fees at move-out if the unit is left in a worse-than-expected condition, but again, those additional charges must be documented.
Can Landlords Charge for Cleaning Specific Items?
Yes, but only if those charges are reasonable, clearly outlined in the lease, and not duplicative. Some units may require additional services at move-out, such as:
- Carpet shampooing or steam cleaning
- Pet deodorization and dander removal
- Appliance detailing (oven, fridge, washer/dryer)
- Vent or duct cleaning
- Window washing or blind cleaning
- Outdoor maintenance or trash removal
If these areas are excessively dirty or damaged, a landlord may assess a separate fee. However, be cautious of being “nickel-and-dimed.” If your landlord is charging separate fees for basic cleaning tasks that should be covered by a general cleaning cost, you have the right to ask questions.
Many tenants find it more acceptable to pay a slightly higher general cleaning fee than to receive a list of ten separate charges.
How to Avoid Cleaning Fees at Move-Out
The best way to avoid a surprise cleaning charge is to leave your rental in the same clean condition it was when you moved in—or better. Taking a proactive approach not only protects your security deposit but also helps you move out with confidence.
- Start Early and Make a Plan: Don’t wait until moving day to start cleaning. Give yourself at least a week before your move-out date to tackle different areas of the home in manageable sections.
- Deep Clean the Kitchen and Bathrooms: Make sure you clean behind and underneath appliances like the refrigerator and stove. Wipe out drawers and cupboards, clean the inside of the oven and microwave, and scrub countertops, sinks, toilets, and tubs.
- Address Pet Odors and Hair: If you have pets, it’s important to eliminate any odors, stains, or fur that may linger. Use enzyme cleaners on carpeted areas and clean all surfaces where pet hair may have accumulated.
- Remove All Trash and Belongings: Leftover trash, furniture, or even random items in closets can result in disposal charges. Make sure to take everything with you.
- Document the Condition: Before turning in your keys, take clear photos of every room, including close-ups of appliances, floors, walls, and any previously existing damage. This documentation can serve as evidence if you later need to dispute a cleaning fee or other deduction from your deposit.
- Ask for a Pre-Move-Out Walk-Through: If possible, request a final inspection or walk-through with your landlord. This gives you the opportunity to fix anything they flag before they assess a fee for it.
- Keep Your Records: Hold onto any cleaning receipts, communications with your landlord, or evidence of your efforts. Whether you hired professional cleaners or did it yourself, these records can be useful if you receive a charge you believe is unfair.
What Can You Do if You're Charged Unfairly?
If you receive a cleaning charge after move-out that you believe is unjustified, don’t panic. Start by requesting an explanation and written documentation. Ask for an itemized statement and any photos the landlord took to support their claim.
If the explanation seems vague or exaggerated, respond with your own photos and evidence. If you hired cleaners or performed a deep clean yourself, include that proof.
In many cases, landlords will work with tenants to resolve disputes, especially if they want to avoid legal action. If you can’t come to an agreement, you may be able to file a complaint with your local housing authority or take the matter to small claims court.
Final Thoughts: Can Landlords Charge for Cleaning?
Yes, landlords can charge for cleaning when tenants leave a rental in poor condition—but only for dirt and messes that go beyond what’s expected from normal, respectful use. These fees must be reasonable, documented, and consistent with the lease agreement.
The key takeaway for renters is simple: take care of the property, clean thoroughly before moving out, document your efforts, and understand your lease. With those steps, you’ll reduce the risk of surprise deductions and protect your deposit.
If you’re ready for a fresh start in a professionally managed rental home, we can help.
We offer clean, move-in-ready properties where tenants are treated with fairness and respect. Whether you’re relocating, upsizing, or downsizing, we’ll help you find a place that feels like home.
