When a tenant hands back the keys, the real work often begins. While the unit might look fine at a glance, move-out maintenance is about more than quick cleaning—it’s your chance to protect your property’s long-term condition, uncover hidden issues, and prepare it for the next tenant.
What happens in the days between tenants can either set you up for a smooth turnover—or create weeks of unexpected delays. Here’s what a solid post-move-out maintenance routine should include, and why it matters more than many landlords realize.
The Immediate Post-Move-Out Checklist
Start with a walk-through within 24–48 hours of move-out. Look beyond the surface:
- Document the condition: Take photos of every room, including floors, appliances, windows, fixtures, and walls.
- Check for left-behind belongings: Be sure to follow local laws for handling abandoned property.
- Inspect for damage: Look for scuffs, dents, burns, leaks, or broken hardware that weren’t there before.
- Test appliances and systems: Turn on all lights, fans, outlets, A/C units, and plumbing fixtures to ensure they work.
This walk-through isn’t just about security deposits—it’s about setting a maintenance baseline before cleaning or repairs begin.
Cleaning vs. Repair vs. Upgrade
After the initial inspection, break your action items into three categories:
- Cleaning: Deep-clean bathrooms, kitchens, carpets, and windows. Wipe baseboards, vents, and ceiling fans.
- Repairs: Patch nail holes, fix damaged doors or blinds, re-caulk tubs, or address appliance issues.
- Upgrades: This is your best opportunity to improve lighting, replace worn hardware, or make small cosmetic enhancements that boost rent value.
Many landlords find that turnover is the perfect time for upgrades because it avoids disrupting tenants—and contractors can work freely.
Look for Hidden Issues
Some problems aren’t obvious until a tenant moves out:
- Leaks under sinks or behind toilets
- Slow drains or water pressure problems
- Worn flooring hidden under rugs
- Unusual smells from HVAC units or appliances
- Minor pest activity in cabinets or basements
Catching these now can save you time and money before they escalate or become visible to a new tenant.
Paint Touch-Ups or Full Repaint?
Landlords often debate whether to touch up or repaint entire walls. The answer depends on:
- How noticeable the scuffs or discoloration are
- Whether the paint has faded or aged unevenly
- Whether you’ve used consistent colors across units
If the unit hasn’t been painted in 3–5 years, it’s usually worth doing a full refresh. It brightens the space and improves listing photos.
Flooring Check and Refresh
Move-out is the ideal time to:
- Deep clean or replace carpets
- Buff or refinish wood floors
- Replace cracked or loose tiles
Clean flooring is a major factor in a tenant’s first impression. It also prevents hidden allergens or smells from lingering.
Change Locks or Re-Key
For security and peace of mind, it’s smart to either re-key or change locks between tenants. This ensures former tenants or anyone with a spare key no longer has access.
If your property uses digital locks, reset access codes and verify they’re functioning properly.
Service Major Systems
Use turnover as a moment to schedule system checkups:
- HVAC inspection and filter replacement
- Water heater performance check
- Smoke and CO detector battery test
- Electrical panel check (especially in older homes)
Doing this now reduces the chance of in-lease malfunctions or emergency calls.
Exterior and Curb Appeal
Don’t forget what tenants see before they step inside:
- Mow lawns and clear walkways
- Touch up chipped paint or siding
- Clean gutters and inspect the roof
- Power wash porches or driveways
A clean, cared-for exterior reassures prospective renters and reflects positively on your management style.
Documentation for Records (and Protection)
Create a digital folder with:
- Pre- and post-move-out photos
- Completed maintenance checklist
- Contractor invoices or work orders
- Security deposit deductions and reasoning
This record isn’t just for organization—it can help protect you in case of disputes.
How Long Should Turnover Maintenance Take?
A typical single-unit turnover can take anywhere from 2–7 days, depending on the condition of the unit and how much prep you’ve done in advance.
Pro tip: Keep a standard timeline and checklist ready for every turnover. It helps you budget time and money more accurately.
How RentalRiff Fits In
RentalRiff connects landlords with licensed property specialists who handle both routine and turnover maintenance. From inspections to small upgrades, they help streamline your turnover process and get units ready faster—without sacrificing quality.
Make Turnover Your Opportunity
Move-out maintenance isn’t just about patching things up—it’s a moment to reset your property, improve its appeal, and prevent future issues. When done right, it shortens vacancy windows, attracts better tenants, and reinforces your reputation as a quality landlord.
Turnovers don’t have to be stressful. With a structured plan—and the right partners—they become one of your best tools for long-term success.