The Ultimate Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Ontario Renters

Moving out of a rental in Ontario comes with real financial stakes. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords can deduct cleaning costs from your deposit if the unit isn't returned in the same condition it was received. A thorough move-out clean is one of the most important things you can do to protect your money.

Before You Start

• Take timestamped photos of every room before and after cleaning
• Gather your original move-in inspection report to compare conditions
• Allow at least a full day — rushing leads to missed spots

Kitchen Checklist

• Oven: Remove racks and soak them; scrub the interior, door glass, and burner drip pans
• Refrigerator: Defrost if needed; wipe all shelves, drawers, and door seals; clean the exterior including the top
• Microwave: Clean inside and out, including the turntable
• Cabinets and drawers: Wipe inside and out; remove all shelf liners
• Countertops and backsplash: Degrease thoroughly
• Sink: Descale the faucet; scrub the basin and drain
• Floors: Sweep, mop, and clean along the baseboards

Bathroom Checklist

• Toilet: Clean under the rim, the bowl, the tank exterior, and the base
• Shower and tub: Remove soap scum and limescale from tiles, grout, and fixtures
• Vanity and sink: Wipe the mirror, clean the cabinet inside and out
• Exhaust fan: Remove the cover and clean out dust
• Floors: Mop and clean grout lines

Bedroom and Living Area Checklist

• Walls: Wipe scuff marks; touch up paint if permitted and necessary
• Windows: Clean glass inside and out; wipe sills and tracks
• Closets: Vacuum floors; wipe shelves and rods
• Light fixtures: Remove covers and wash them
• Baseboards and trim: Wipe down every room
• Floors: Vacuum carpets thoroughly; mop hard floors

Often-Forgotten Spots

• Inside light switch and outlet covers
• Door frames and the tops of doors
• Ceiling fan blades
• Behind and under appliances
• Garage or storage areas if included in the lease

Should You Hire a Professional?

A professional move-out clean typically costs less than the deposit deduction a landlord might claim for a substandard clean — and it comes with the peace of mind of knowing the job is done right. Evergreen Cleaning offers move-in/move-out cleaning across the GTA, with a detailed checklist that satisfies even the most thorough landlord inspection.