Top Mistakes Tenants Make Before Moving Out (And How to Avoid Them)
Top Mistakes Tenants Make Before Moving Out (And How to Avoid Them)
Moving out of a rental property? Avoid these common mistakes that could cost you your deposit — or worse, lead to disputes with your landlord or letting agent.
1. Not Booking a Professional End of Tenancy Clean
This is one of the biggest pitfalls. Many tenants attempt to clean the property themselves — but miss key areas like oven interiors, limescale build-up, and behind appliances. Inventory clerks and landlords expect the property to be as clean as it was at check-in.
2. Leaving Repairs or Damage Unaddressed
Minor issues like nail holes, scuffed paintwork, or broken blinds are often overlooked — but they can be flagged in the checkout report. It’s worth fixing these before your final inspection to avoid deductions.
3. Forgetting to Defrost the Freezer
Many tenants forget to empty and defrost their freezer before moving day. This can leave a mess for landlords and may even cause damage if left powered off and leaking.
4. Leaving Belongings Behind
Even leaving small items — a bin, a dish rack, or cleaning products — can result in a claim for removal costs. Always do a full sweep of every cupboard, drawer, and shelf.
5. Not Reviewing the Check-In Report
If you don’t check what was recorded at the start of your tenancy, you won’t know how high the standards were. Inventory reports are the key comparison tool for deposit return — review it carefully before handover.
6. Not Taking Your Own Photos
While inventory clerks will document the property at checkout, it’s smart to take your own timestamped photos — especially of high-value areas or previously noted damage.
7. Not Communicating with the Landlord or Agent
If something is broken or has changed, always let your landlord or letting agent know in advance. Surprises during checkout can cause delays, stress, and disputes.
Final Tip: Plan Ahead
Start your moving-out checklist at least two weeks before the end of your tenancy. This gives you time to arrange a professional clean, fix any issues, and avoid last-minute panic.
Need help getting your property checkout-ready? Contact Estate Services Inventories today — we support tenants across Surrey, Berkshire, and Hampshire with professional end of tenancy cleaning, inventory reports, and expert advice.
