{"id":408,"date":"2023-02-06T09:34:46","date_gmt":"2023-02-06T17:34:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/?p=408"},"modified":"2025-06-03T12:00:41","modified_gmt":"2025-06-03T19:00:41","slug":"6-tenant-responsibilities-when-moving-out-of-a-rental-property","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/6-tenant-responsibilities-when-moving-out-of-a-rental-property","title":{"rendered":"6 Tenant Responsibilities When Moving Out of a Rental"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Moving out of a rental property\u2014the place you\u2019ve called home for the past year or more\u2014can be both exciting and overwhelming. Between securing your next residence, coordinating your move, and handling the many details involved, it\u2019s understandable to feel a bit stressed.<\/p>\n<p>Amid all the planning, one important question often comes to mind: Will I receive my full security deposit back?<\/p>\n<p>Having a clear understanding of the move-out process can make all the difference. While inspection standards may vary slightly between property management companies, there are common expectations you can prepare for. It\u2019s also important to be aware that state laws differ on what landlords can legally deduct from a security deposit, so it\u2019s essential to understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.<\/p>\n<p><iframe class=\"youtube-iframe\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/u17JciuhV2o?si=DetOCZWChWkawS2i\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>Having conducted thousands of move-out inspections over the past four decades, many well-intentioned residents make the same costly mistakes, often to maximize their deposit return. While getting your full deposit back is possible, the small details are often overlooked. These small oversights can quickly add up, leading to unexpected deductions\u2014and plenty of frustration\u2014when that final deposit statement arrives in your mailbox.<\/p>\n<p>You may have spent countless hours scrubbing, patching, and repainting, only to feel blindsided by the results. We get it\u2014sometimes, even the best intentions fall short.<\/p>\n<p>But the good news is that with some preparation and insight, you can avoid the common pitfalls and leave your home on the best possible terms.<\/p>\n<h2>6 Things You Should Know When Moving Out<\/h2>\n<h3>1. Cleaning:<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Understandably, everyone has a different standard of cleanliness.<\/strong> We often hear comments like, \u201cI spent hours cleaning the house from top to bottom\u2014how could there still be anything left to clean?\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The reality is that certain areas are commonly overlooked during move-out cleaning, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Window sills and ledges<\/li>\n<li>Stove hood filters<\/li>\n<li>Windows<\/li>\n<li>Ceiling fans<\/li>\n<li>The area beneath and around the stove burners<\/li>\n<li>Blinds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When the costs of addressing each missed item individually are added up, it\u2019s often more efficient and cost-effective to hire a professional cleaning service and charge for it.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1595 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Wiping-Stove-Top.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"275\" height=\"183\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>We strongly recommend that you do not clean the home yourself.<\/strong> If your property management company offers the <a href=\"https:\/\/acrobat.adobe.com\/id\/urn:aaid:sc:US:e52021b6-b022-4885-b41a-8877aae92a2d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">option of deducting cleaning from your deposit<\/a>, it\u2019s often the most practical and efficient choice. Your time and energy are valuable\u2014and likely better spent on your move.<\/p>\n<p>At Management One, we provide a comprehensive cleaning service, including carpet cleaning, priced between $545 and $875, depending on the size of your home. While getting your full deposit back may seem more appealing, most residents end up spending a similar amount (or more) by handling it themselves and hiring separate vendors.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Discover What It Takes to Thoroughly Clean Your Rental Property.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/acrobat.adobe.com\/id\/urn:aaid:sc:US:e52021b6-b022-4885-b41a-8877aae92a2d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Download your cleaning checklist today.<\/a><\/p>\n<h3>2. Painting<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Thinking of Painting Before You Move Out? Read This First<br \/>\n<\/strong><br \/>\nWe appreciate your effort to leave the home in good condition, but we recommend not painting the walls yourself. Even with the best intentions, mismatched colors or uneven finishes can result in additional costs.<\/p>\n<p>If you've lived in the home for over two years, repainting is typically considered normal wear and tear. Under California law, it is usually the owner's responsibility\u2014unless the walls were damaged or painted a different color without approval.<\/p>\n<p>When in doubt, feel free to reach out. We\u2019re here to help make your move-out process as smooth as possible.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-986 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/painting-on-wall-274x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"274\" height=\"300\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/painting-on-wall-274x300.jpg 274w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/painting-on-wall-934x1024.jpg 934w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/painting-on-wall-768x842.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/painting-on-wall-1401x1536.jpg 1401w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/painting-on-wall-1868x2048.jpg 1868w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/painting-on-wall-scaled.jpg 2335w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 274px) 100vw, 274px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>A Real-Life Example<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Recently, a resident moved out after three years and tried to patch the walls by painting over them. Unfortunately, the paint color didn\u2019t match, and the uneven finish required a full repaint. This well-intentioned effort ultimately cost the resident <strong>$1,000<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Had they left the walls untouched, the painting would have been considered <strong>normal wear and tear<\/strong>, and the cost would have been the <strong>landlord\u2019s responsibility<\/strong> under California law.<\/p>\n<p>Related Article: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/blog\/security-deposit-security-deposit-how-to-maximize-your-security-deposit-refund\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Security Deposit: How to maximize your security deposit refund.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-987 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Hanging-pictures-in-frames-on-wall--300x222.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"222\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Hanging-pictures-in-frames-on-wall--300x222.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Hanging-pictures-in-frames-on-wall--1024x758.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Hanging-pictures-in-frames-on-wall--768x568.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Hanging-pictures-in-frames-on-wall--1536x1136.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Hanging-pictures-in-frames-on-wall--2048x1515.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Hanging-pictures-in-frames-on-wall--scaled.jpg 2560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>3. Pictures<\/h3>\n<p>Most people enjoy personalizing their homes with pictures, and understandably so. A great tip is to use Command Strips with adhesive and Velcro backing, which make hanging and removing pictures quick and damage-free. If you used nails, don\u2019t worry. Carefully remove them with needle-nose pliers to minimize damage to the wall. However, we recommend not patching the holes yourself, as DIY fixes often need to be redone professionally, potentially costing more in the long run.<\/p>\n<div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-1596 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/woman-mowing.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"258\" height=\"196\" title=\"\"><\/div>\n<h3>4. Landscaping<\/h3>\n<p>The exterior of the home is often overlooked during the chaos of moving. Before turning in your keys, take a moment to tidy up the yard\u2014clear out weeds and debris from flower beds, mow the lawn, rake any leaves, and ensure that all sprinklers are functioning properly. A well-maintained exterior leaves a positive final impression.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-990 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Young-woman-checking-closet-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Young-woman-checking-closet-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Young-woman-checking-closet-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Young-woman-checking-closet-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Young-woman-checking-closet-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Young-woman-checking-closet-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Young-woman-checking-closet-scaled.jpg 2560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>5. Personal Items<\/h3>\n<p>Be sure to remove all personal belongings from the home before returning your keys. Any items left behind may result in charges against your security deposit for removal. Take a final walkthrough\u2014check the ceilings for leftover decorations, behind doors for forgotten toys, closets for stray items, and the garage for trash or last-minute boxes. A thorough check helps ensure a smooth move-out process.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-988 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Garbage-carts-set-outside-of-the-home--300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Garbage-carts-set-outside-of-the-home--300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Garbage-carts-set-outside-of-the-home--1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Garbage-carts-set-outside-of-the-home--768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Garbage-carts-set-outside-of-the-home--1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Garbage-carts-set-outside-of-the-home--2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Garbage-carts-set-outside-of-the-home-.jpg 2400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>6. Trash Cans<\/h3>\n<p>One of the most commonly overlooked tasks when moving out is emptying the trash cans. Last-minute trash often gets left behind, but no one wants to move into a home with full bins. Be sure to empty all trash cans before leaving. If pickup is scheduled after your move-out date, consider asking a neighbor to set them out for you. Any trash left behind will be removed and charged to your account.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-991 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/couple-outside-car-trunk-next-to-boxes-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/couple-outside-car-trunk-next-to-boxes-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/couple-outside-car-trunk-next-to-boxes-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/couple-outside-car-trunk-next-to-boxes-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/couple-outside-car-trunk-next-to-boxes-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/couple-outside-car-trunk-next-to-boxes-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/couple-outside-car-trunk-next-to-boxes-scaled.jpg 2560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following these simple tips can help reduce stress and save time during your move. Check with your management company to see if they offer a cleaning checklist or professional cleaning services\u2014taking advantage of these options can make the process much smoother.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>If you are a Management One resident and would like a cleaning checklist, just click <a href=\"https:\/\/acrobat.adobe.com\/id\/urn:aaid:sc:US:e52021b6-b022-4885-b41a-8877aae92a2d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/contact\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1131 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/CTA_ready-to-find-1024x687.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"687\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/CTA_ready-to-find-1024x687.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/CTA_ready-to-find-300x201.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/CTA_ready-to-find-768x515.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/CTA_ready-to-find-1536x1030.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/CTA_ready-to-find.jpg 1610w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Moving out of a rental property\u2014the place you\u2019ve called home for the past year or more\u2014can be both exciting and overwhelming. Between securing your next residence, coordinating your move, and handling the many details involved, it\u2019s understandable to feel a bit stressed. Amid all the planning, one important question often comes to mind: Will I [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":1603,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-408","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-resident-education"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/408","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=408"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/408\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1603"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=408"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=408"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.managementone.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=408"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}