To get your full deposit back in San Diego, your rental needs to be cleaned to the same checklist your landlord or property manager inspects against — including inside the oven and refrigerator, inside cabinets, baseboards, and detailed bathrooms. Use the room-by-room checklist below.
Kitchen
- Inside and outside of the oven (racks and glass)
- Inside and outside of the refrigerator and freezer
- Inside all cabinets and drawers
- Countertops, backsplash, and sink degreased
- Range hood, stovetop, and appliance exteriors
- Floors scrubbed
Bathrooms
- Tubs, showers, tile, and grout scrubbed
- Toilets, sinks, vanities, and mirrors disinfected
- Hard-water and soap-scum removal
- Inside cabinets and drawers wiped
- Floors washed
Whole Home
- Baseboards, door frames, and light-switch plates wiped
- Interior windows, sills, and tracks
- Closets and shelving wiped inside
- Cobwebs removed; ceiling fans and vents dusted
- All floors vacuumed and mopped
Tips to Protect Your Deposit
- Clean after your furniture is out, so every surface is reachable.
- Take dated photos of the cleaned, empty home.
- Don’t forget the patio, balcony, and garage if they’re in your lease.
- Book a professional move-out clean if you’re short on time near month-end.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does move-out cleaning cost in San Diego?
Professional move-out cleaning in San Diego typically costs $245–$545 depending on home size and condition.
Will cleaning really help me get my deposit back?
Yes — cleaning is one of the most common reasons landlords withhold deposits. Cleaning to the inspection checklist removes that risk.
Should I clean before or after moving out?
After. An empty home lets you reach inside cabinets, behind appliances, and every surface.
Let Us Handle It
Our move-out cleaning in San Diego is built to pass inspection, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call (858) 223-6633 for a free quote.