Austin's rental market is tight. Landlords know it, and many conduct thorough move-out inspections knowing tenants are eager to get their deposits back. A missed baseboard or greasy oven can cost you hundreds. This checklist covers everything Austin landlords typically check — and what a professional move-out clean should include.
What Austin Landlords Actually Check
Most Austin property managers walk through with a printed checklist. The areas that trigger the most deposit deductions are almost always the same: oven and stovetop, bathroom grout and caulk, inside the refrigerator, window tracks, and blinds. Carpet staining is another common issue, especially in units with pets. Nail holes and scuffs on walls rarely cost you the deposit on their own — it's the grime that does.
Kitchen
- Clean inside the oven, including racks and the broiler drawer
- Degrease the stovetop and range hood filter
- Empty and wipe the inside of the refrigerator and freezer (defrost if needed)
- Clean inside the microwave — ceiling, walls, turntable
- Wipe all cabinet fronts and interiors
- Scrub the sink and sanitize the garbage disposal
- Clean window above the sink, wipe window tracks
- Sweep and mop the floor, including under the refrigerator
Bathrooms
- Scrub grout with a baking soda paste — this is what landlords look at first
- Remove soap scum from shower doors, tub, and walls
- Descale the showerhead and faucets
- Disinfect the toilet inside and out, including the base and behind the bowl
- Clean mirror, vanity, and all hardware streak-free
- Wipe cabinet interiors and medicine cabinet
- Wash bath mats or remove them entirely
- Mop the floor, paying close attention to corners
Bedrooms and Living Areas
- Wipe all baseboards — one of the most commonly missed items
- Clean window sills and tracks
- Wipe light switches, outlet covers, and door handles
- Dust ceiling fan blades and light fixtures
- Vacuum carpets thoroughly or arrange professional carpet cleaning if stained
- Sweep and mop all hard floors
- Clean interior of closets
- Patch nail holes with spackle if required by your lease
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
If your apartment is in good condition and you have six or more hours available, a DIY move-out clean is doable. But if the unit hasn't been deep cleaned in a while, you have pets, or you simply don't have time — a professional move-out clean is almost always worth the cost. In Austin, professional move-out cleaning runs $250–$450. Most landlords accept a professional cleaning receipt in lieu of a spotless inspection, making the investment straightforward.
GleamGlow TX specializes in move-out cleaning for Austin rentals. We know what local property managers look for and clean accordingly — so you can hand over your keys with confidence.