Moving out of your New Jersey rental is stressful enough without worrying about your security deposit. Landlords in NJ can legally withhold your deposit for cleaning costs — but only if the property is left in worse condition than when you moved in. Here’s your complete move-out cleaning checklist.
Kitchen — The Most Scrutinized Room
- Clean inside and outside of all appliances (oven, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher)
- Wipe down all cabinet doors and drawer fronts inside and out
- Degrease stovetop and hood vent
- Scrub sink and faucet — remove any mineral deposits
- Clean countertops and backsplash
- Sweep and mop floors including under appliances
Bathrooms — No Detail Is Too Small
- Scrub toilet including base, behind tank, and under rim
- Clean shower/tub including grout lines and caulking
- Wipe down mirrors, vanity, and light fixtures
- Clean inside vanity cabinets and medicine cabinet
- Scrub tile and regrout if needed
- Mop floor and clean baseboard
Bedrooms and Living Areas
- Clean inside all closets and wipe down shelves
- Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Wipe down all baseboards and door frames
- Clean window sills, tracks, and blinds
- Vacuum carpets or mop hardwood floors
- Patch and touch up any wall scuffs (or note them for landlord)
Don’t Forget These Often-Missed Areas
- Inside all light switch covers and outlet plates
- Behind and underneath all furniture you’re leaving
- Garage, basement, or storage areas
- Exterior entry areas and patio if applicable
New Jersey Security Deposit Law
In NJ, landlords must return your security deposit within 30 days of move-out (or 5 days after a disaster). They must provide itemized deductions. “Normal wear and tear” cannot be charged — only actual damage or cleaning costs for conditions beyond normal use.
Skip the Stress — Let Us Handle It
Not sure you can tackle all of this on top of packing and moving? Edu’s Cleaning Service provides professional move-out cleaning throughout Middletown, NJ and Monmouth County. We know exactly what landlords look for and clean to that standard.
Book your move-out cleaning online — we’ll make sure you get that deposit back.