Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Massachusetts Renters

Why move-out cleaning matters in MA

Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 186 § 15B) allows landlords to deduct from your security deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear — and cleaning is one of the most common deductions tenants face. A professional move-out cleaning costs a fraction of what a landlord typically deducts, and it's the single best move you can make to get your full deposit back.

Kitchen checklist

The kitchen is the #1 area landlords scrutinize. Every surface gets attention:

• Inside and outside of oven, including racks
• Inside and outside of microwave
• Refrigerator — inside, outside, behind, and underneath
• Dishwasher interior and filter
• All cabinets and drawers, inside and out
• Sink, faucets, and backsplash descaled
• Floor swept and mopped

Bathroom checklist

Bathrooms are deduction zone #2. Pay extra attention to:

• Tub, tile, and grout scrubbed
• Showerhead descaled, glass doors streak-free
• Toilet interior, exterior, base, and behind
• Vanity, mirror, and fixtures polished
• Exhaust fan dusted
• Floor scrubbed

Everywhere else

If you have pets, ask for the optional pet-hair-detail add-on. Pet hair stuck in baseboards and HVAC vents is a very common deposit deduction.

• All baseboards, door frames, and switch plates hand-wiped
• Inside all closets
• Windows interior, sills, and tracks
• Light fixtures dusted
• Vents and returns cleaned
• Floors vacuumed and mopped
• Trash removed

Book a move-out clean

Fairy Cleaning offers move-out cleaning across Boston, Salem, Peabody, Beverly, Andover and the North Shore. Most move-outs can be booked within 48 hours. Call +1 (978) 896-2656.