Move-In, Move-Out Cleanings

To ensure our team can deliver the best results possible, please follow these steps before we arrive:

• Empty the Home: All furniture, personal belongings, and trash should be completely removed from the property.
• Ensure Utilities Are On: Electricity and running water (hot and cold) must be active so our equipment and cleaning supplies can function properly.
• Defrost the Freezer/Refrigerator: If interior appliance cleaning is included, please turn off and defrost the freezer at least 24 hours prior to our arrival.
• Clear Access: Ensure our cleaning technicians have clear instructions on how to access the property (key location, lockbox, or gate code).

Virginia tenants must return a rental property in good and clean order, remove personal property and trash, and leave reasonable wear and tear excepted. The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act applies in Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Alexandria, and Arlington.

For a move-out cleaning, focus on the areas a landlord or property manager will usually review:

• Clean floors, baseboards, doors, and accessible windows.
• Wipe cabinets, countertops, appliances, and other kitchen surfaces.
• Clean bathroom fixtures, tubs, showers, sinks, mirrors, and floors.
• Remove trash and personal belongings from the home, closets, storage areas, and appliances.
• Check for tenant-caused damage and document the property’s condition before returning the keys.

Virginia law does not require a tenant to restore ordinary wear and tear. Faded paint, minor nail holes, and normal carpet wear may differ from damage caused by the tenant. The lease may set additional cleaning or property-care requirements, so read it before scheduling service. For example, a lease may ask for professional carpet cleaning or a receipt at move-out. Follow the exact wording of your agreement rather than assuming a regional standard.

Virginia Code § 55.1-1226 generally requires the landlord to provide the security-deposit balance and an itemized written notice of deductions within 45 days after the tenancy ends or the tenant vacates, whichever is later. The law allows deductions for certain unpaid amounts, damage beyond reasonable wear and tear, and other charges authorized by the lease. Uncleaned appliances, heavily soiled surfaces, or abandoned trash may support a cleaning-related deduction when the charge is permitted by the lease and Virginia law. Review the official security-deposit statute for the current requirements.

The same statute addresses the move-out inspection. After a landlord asks the tenant to vacate, or within five days after receiving the tenant’s notice of intent to vacate, the landlord must give written notice of the tenant’s right to attend the inspection. If you want to attend, make the request in writing. The inspection must occur within 72 hours after you deliver possession. Keep copies of your notice, inspection request, move-out photos, cleaning receipts, and the final deposit statement.

We provide move-out cleaning in Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, Alexandria, and Arlington. We clean kitchens, bathrooms, floors, and appliances to help you meet your lease’s cleaning requirements, but your lease and landlord determine any deposit deductions. Carpet cleaning is available when a lease requires it. Request a quote for move-out cleaning.

We choose a cleaner for each surface. Our usual products are:

• Neutral-pH floor cleaner: Helps clean finished floors without using an overly harsh formula.
• Non-abrasive kitchen-surface cleaner: Works on countertops, appliance exteriors, cabinet fronts, and other surfaces that can scratch easily.
• Bathroom cleaner: Helps remove soap residue and buildup from tubs, showers, sinks, fixtures, and nearby tile.
• Glass cleaner: Used for mirrors and accessible glass surfaces to reduce streaks.

We select products based on the material, finish, and condition of each surface. We also follow the product label and use appropriate ventilation and precautions during service. Product availability may vary by appointment.

If you prefer an unscented cleaner or need a specific hardwood-floor product, provide it before the appointment. We’ll use the products you supply. Tell us before the appointment which products you want us to use, and we’ll confirm whether they’re suitable for the surface. Disinfect, sanitize, and clean are our goals.

Yes. We use pet-safe, non-toxic cleaning agents.

Please tell us about your pets before the appointment. Include any allergies, sensitivities, anxiety, protective behavior, or areas they should avoid. This helps us plan the visit and follow your instructions.

Before we arrive, put away pet food, treats, and medication. Move food and water bowls to a clean area so we can clean around them. Pick up toys, bedding, and other items you want kept dry or untouched. If a litter box, cage, aquarium, or pet bed needs special handling, mention it when you schedule the service.

If your pet is anxious or protective, please keep them in a designated room or crate while we work. Please do the same for pets that might escape through an open door. A familiar space can help reduce stress during the visit. Keep doors and gates secured, and let us know which rooms should remain closed.

We can clean floors, pet areas, and other surfaces where hair or tracked-in dirt collects. We pay extra attention to corners, entryways, stairs, and areas beneath accessible furniture. Tell us if you want a particular room prioritized or if pet hair has built up on upholstery, rugs, or baseboards.

We will keep cleaning products and tools with us while we work and remove them before leaving. Allow cleaned floors and surfaces to dry before letting pets return to the area. If you need a special accommodation, tell us when you book the service so we can discuss the safest arrangement.

See our how to prepare guide before your appointment.

Yes. We wipe down surfaces, clean play areas, and take our supplies and tools when we leave. We make sure floors are dry and safe to walk on. We use products according to their labels and follow required ventilation and handling procedures.