Move-in and move-out checklist
A complete guide to starting and ending your tenancy at a Croskey Real Estate rental, including California security deposit rules and our rent-ready cleaning standard.
Moving in
Before move-in day
- First month rent and security deposit are due at lease signing.
- Transfer utilities to your name a few days before occupancy: PG&E (electricity/gas), your local water district, and trash service.
- Review and countersign the move-in condition report your property manager provides.
- Take date-stamped photos and video of every room before bringing in furniture - this protects your deposit at move-out.
On move-in day
- Walk each room with your move-in condition report and note any pre-existing damage.
- Report any damage not noted on the move-in form to our office in writing within 48 hours.
- Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and all appliances.
- Locate the water shutoff valve and circuit breaker panel.
- Confirm you have all keys, mailbox keys, and any garage door openers.
Moving out
Complete every section below before returning your keys. Our team inspects against this same list when calculating any deposit deductions.
Kitchen
- Clean oven, stovetop, and hood vent - degrease all surfaces thoroughly.
- Wipe down interior and exterior of all cabinets and drawers.
- Clean refrigerator inside and out, including the drip pan underneath.
- Clean dishwasher interior and filter.
- Wipe countertops, backsplash, and sink. Remove any hard water deposits.
Bathrooms
- Scrub tub, shower, toilet bowl, and sink thoroughly.
- Clean all mirrors and fixtures.
- Remove mold or mildew from grout and caulk. Replace caulk if damaged.
- Clean exhaust fan cover.
- Leave towel bars, toilet paper holders, and any installed hardware intact.
Bedrooms and living areas
- Professionally shampoo all carpets - DIY carpet cleaning does not meet the rent-ready standard.
- Sweep and mop all hard floors. Remove scuffs from vinyl or tile.
- Wipe down all baseboards, window sills, and blinds.
- Clean interior window glass. Clean exterior glass on ground-floor windows you can safely reach.
- Remove all nails, hooks, and anchors. Patch and paint holes to match the wall.
- Clean ceiling fans, light fixtures, and switch plates.
Exterior and garage
- Mow lawn and trim edges. Remove weeds from flower beds.
- Clear patio and backyard of all personal belongings and debris.
- Sweep the garage floor and remove all items.
- Ensure trash and recycling bins are empty and in their designated area.
Final walkthrough items
- Replace all burned-out light bulbs with the correct wattage.
- Clean sliding door tracks and ensure doors glide smoothly.
- Return all keys, mailbox keys, and garage door openers to our office.
- Provide a forwarding address for your security deposit itemization.
California security deposit rules (Civil Code 1950.5)
Your property manager has 21 calendar days after you return the keys to mail either your full deposit or an itemized statement of deductions with any remaining balance.
Deductions are limited to: unpaid rent, cleaning costs to restore the unit to the condition it was in at move-in (minus normal wear and tear), and repair of damage beyond normal wear and tear.
Note: your security deposit cannot be used to pay your final month's rent. Final rent must be paid separately.
Common questions
How do I get my full security deposit back in California?
Return the home to rent-ready condition, remove all belongings, and provide a forwarding address. Under California Civil Code 1950.5, your property manager has 21 calendar days after you surrender the keys to mail either a full refund or an itemized statement of deductions with any remaining balance. Completing every item on this checklist and taking move-out photos significantly reduces the chance of deductions.
Can I request a pre-move-out inspection?
Yes. California law gives you the right to a pre-move-out inspection within two weeks of your scheduled move-out date. Contact our office to schedule one. During the inspection we will identify any items that, if not corrected before you leave, would result in deductions from your deposit. This gives you the opportunity to fix things yourself rather than paying for contractor costs.
What is normal wear and tear in California?
Normal wear and tear is the minor deterioration that occurs through ordinary, reasonable use of the property. Examples include: light scuffs on walls, small nail holes from picture hanging, gradual carpet wear from walking, and faded paint after several years. Landlords cannot charge for these. Chargeable damage includes large holes in walls, pet stains or odors, broken fixtures, burns, and any damage beyond what normal use would cause.
How much notice do I need to give before moving out?
Your lease specifies the required notice period. California law requires at minimum 30 days written notice if you have lived in the unit for less than one year, and 60 days written notice if you have lived there for one year or more. Submit your notice to vacate in writing using the form linked on this page. Verbal notice does not satisfy the legal requirement.
Do I need professional carpet cleaning when I move out?
Yes, for Croskey Real Estate rentals. Professional carpet shampooing is required to meet the rent-ready standard. Consumer-grade carpet cleaning machines do not achieve the same result. If you arrange professional cleaning yourself, keep the receipt - we may request it. If carpets are not professionally cleaned, the cost of professional cleaning will be deducted from your security deposit.
What happens if I leave belongings behind after move-out?
Under California Civil Code 1983, abandoned personal property must be stored for a minimum of 15 days if valued at over $700. The cost of removal and storage will be deducted from your security deposit. To avoid these costs, remove all belongings before returning your keys. For large items you cannot transport, contact our office before your move-out date to make arrangements.