Moving Out Checklist
If you're renting, moving out is half logistics and half not-losing-your-security-deposit. This checklist covers both, in order.
For a version that includes your move-in tasks at the new place too, start a Dovetail plan.
60 days before move-out
- Re-read your lease. Specifically: notice requirements, cleaning requirements, fees for early termination if applicable.
- Give written notice to your landlord with the move-out date. Use the format your lease specifies (email, certified mail, etc.). Keep a copy.
- If you're moving into a new rental, start applications now — landlord references can take a week.
30 days before move-out
- Schedule utility disconnection for the day after your move-out date (give yourself a buffer).
- Book movers or a truck.
- Start the deep cleaning conversation: will you do it yourself, or hire a cleaning service? A professional clean for a one-bedroom runs $150–$300 and is often required by lease.
- Request your move-in walkthrough notes from your landlord if you have them. They're your reference point for what "as you found it" actually means.
2 weeks before move-out
- Patch nail holes with spackle. Sand smooth. Touch up paint if you have it.
- Test every smoke detector. Replace batteries.
- Clean inside the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher.
- Wash windows inside (most leases require this).
- Replace any lightbulbs that have burned out.
Need a packing plan for this stretch? See how to pack for a move.
Move-out day
- Final cleaning sweep: baseboards, behind the toilet, inside cabinets, light switches, the spot behind the door no one looks at.
- Take photos and video of every room, every closet, every appliance — empty and clean. Timestamp them.
- Take meter readings.
- Do the walkthrough with the landlord if possible. Note anything they flag, in writing.
- Return all keys, fobs, garage remotes.
After move-out
- Send your forwarding address to your landlord in writing.
- Track the return of your security deposit. Most states require return within 14–30 days.
- If your deposit is short and you have documentation, dispute in writing — small claims court is the next step for unresolved disputes.
For the full week-by-week timeline of the move itself, see our moving checklist.
Frequently asked questions
How much notice do I have to give my landlord?
Most leases require 30 or 60 days written notice. Check your specific lease — fixed-term leases sometimes have different rules.
How do I get my full security deposit back?
Document everything with photos before and after, follow the lease cleaning requirements, patch wall holes, replace lightbulbs and smoke detector batteries, and do the walkthrough with your landlord in person when possible.
What if my landlord keeps my deposit unfairly?
Send a written demand letter referencing your state's security deposit laws and your photo documentation. If unresolved within 30 days, small claims court is your next step — and you'll usually win if you have photos.
Can I break my lease without penalty?
Sometimes. Most states allow lease breaking for active military deployment, uninhabitable conditions, or domestic violence situations. Other reasons typically incur a 1–3 month rent penalty unless your landlord agrees to release you.
Want your move-out and move-in tasks in one plan?
Dovetail handles the renter-to-renter handoff. Move-out tasks at the old place, move-in tasks at the new place, all scheduled together so nothing slips.