Raleigh Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
Security Deposit Grade — Wake County Inspection Standard
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Kitchen
Remove oven racks and scrub with degreaser; replace charred burner drip pans
HIGH RISK — $75–$120
Clean inside oven door glass panels — do not rely on self-clean cycle the night before
Pull refrigerator and stove from wall; vacuum floor debris and dust behind both appliances
Wipe refrigerator door gaskets and rubber seals — check for mold or juice residue
Wipe exposed cabinet tops above upper cabinets where grease and dust accumulate
Clean inside all cabinet drawers; remove drawers to vacuum cavity underneath
Bathrooms
De-scale chrome fixtures and showerheads using vinegar soak or acid-based cleaner
HIGH RISK — hard water deposits
Scrub grout lines and tile caulking; remove mold or mildew staining
Vacuum bathroom exhaust fan grill — dust buildup is an immediate deduction flag
MED RISK — $35–$60
Remove vanity drawers; vacuum cavity and wipe down interior corners
Clean toilet exterior, base, and behind tank — inspectors check the floor around the base
Living Areas and Bedrooms
Vacuum all window sliding tracks using narrow crevice attachment — remove dead insects and sediment
HIGH RISK — $50–$90
Wipe all window blind slats — dust both sides, clean any stuck debris from slat joints
Wipe all baseboards with damp microfiber cloth; pay attention to corners behind where furniture stood
MED RISK — $40–$80 per room
Clean ceiling fan blades — both top and bottom surfaces
Wipe all light switch plates, door frames, and tops of interior doors
Vacuum all carpeted areas; arrange professional steam clean if lease requires certified receipt
HVAC and Air Systems
Vacuum HVAC intake vent grill — slatted grills trap dust visibly
MED RISK — $35–$60
Replace HVAC air filter if required by lease or if visibly blocked
Structural and Exterior
Sweep balcony or patio — remove leaves, pine needles, and spider webs from all corners
Remove all personal garbage; do not leave bags in the unit or on the patio
Wipe interior of all closets including shelving and rod surfaces
Patch and spot-clean any visible wall scuffs or minor damage within tenant responsibility
Final Documentation
Photograph every room from multiple angles before handing over keys — timestamp all images
Confirm property manager walkthrough date in writing; request itemized inspection report
All items complete. You are deposit-inspection ready.