A complete move-out cleaning checklist to help Vancouver renters get their full damage deposit back. Room-by-room guide with BC Residential Tenancy Act tips.
Moving out of a rental in Vancouver? Your damage deposit depends heavily on the condition you leave the unit in. Under the BC Residential Tenancy Act, landlords can deduct cleaning costs from your deposit — but only if the home is dirtier than when you moved in. This checklist helps you cover every area.
Tip: Compare your move-in condition inspection report to this checklist. Only clean beyond normal wear and tear is deductible by the landlord.
Kitchen
- 1Clean inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers
- 2Deep clean the oven: racks, door glass, interior walls
- 3Clean stovetop, burners, and range hood filter
- 4Clean inside and outside of the refrigerator (defrost if needed)
- 5Clean inside and outside of the microwave
- 6Scrub sink, faucet, and drain
- 7Wipe all countertops, backsplash, and walls
- 8Clean dishwasher interior, filter, and door seals
- 9Mop floor thoroughly
Bathrooms
- 1Scrub toilet inside and out, including base and behind
- 2Clean shower walls, glass doors, and shower head
- 3Scrub bathtub and faucets
- 4Remove any mildew from grout and caulking
- 5Clean sink, faucet, and vanity
- 6Wipe all mirrors
- 7Clean medicine cabinet inside and out
- 8Wipe light fixtures
- 9Mop floors and clean baseboards
- 10Clean exhaust fan cover
Bedrooms
- 1Vacuum carpet or sweep and mop floors
- 2Wipe all window sills and tracks
- 3Clean closet interior: shelves, rods, walls, floor
- 4Wipe light switches and outlet covers
- 5Dust and wipe baseboards
- 6Clean blinds or curtain rods
Living Areas
- 1Vacuum all carpets and rugs
- 2Mop hard floors
- 3Wipe walls, removing any marks or scuffs
- 4Dust and wipe all light fixtures
- 5Clean window glass inside
- 6Wipe all baseboards and trim
- 7Clean balcony or patio if applicable
Throughout the Entire Unit
- Clean all light switches and door handles
- Remove all nails, hooks, and wall anchors (patch if required)
- Replace any burnt-out light bulbs
- Clean all vents and registers
- Ensure all garbage has been removed
- Check and clean laundry machines if in-suite
Why Hiring a Professional Cleaner Protects Your Deposit
Many tenants try to do the move-out clean themselves — and many lose part of their deposit because they miss professional standards. A professional move-out cleaner knows exactly what property managers inspect. They also provide a dated invoice, which is strong evidence at the BC Residential Tenancy Branch if a landlord disputes the deposit.
SpruceUp cleaners specialise in end-of-tenancy cleans across Metro Vancouver. Post your job, receive up to 3 quotes from vetted cleaners, and book with confidence.
Get 3 move-out cleaning quotes in Vancouver
Get started — it's freeFrequently asked questions
Can a BC landlord charge me for cleaning at move-out?
Under the BC Residential Tenancy Act, a landlord can deduct from your deposit only for cleaning costs that exceed normal wear and tear. The home must be left in the same condition as when you moved in, accounting for normal use. Hiring a professional cleaner and keeping the invoice is strong protection.
How much does move-out cleaning cost in Vancouver?
Most Vancouver move-out cleans cost $180–$500 depending on home size. A 1-bedroom apartment typically runs $180–$280. A 3-bedroom home runs $320–$500. SpruceUp cleaners quote competitively and many specialise in end-of-tenancy cleans.
Should I hire a professional cleaner for move-out?
Yes, in most cases. Professional cleaners know exactly what landlords and property managers look for. They also provide invoices, which can be used as evidence if a deposit dispute goes to BC Residential Tenancy Branch.
How far in advance should I book move-out cleaning?
Book at least 1 week before your move-out date, and ideally after all your belongings have been removed. Month-end dates (especially the last day of the month) are the busiest times for cleaners in Vancouver.