Move-out cleaning checklist for renters in Japan

Checklist

Kitchen: degrease stove and hood, clean sink, wipe cupboards inside and out. Bathroom: remove mould and scale, clean drain. Toilet and basin. Floors vacuumed and mopped. Windows and sills. Wardrobes and shelves wiped.

Before the inspection

Remove all belongings, turn off appliances you own, leave utilities on for cleaners, and photograph the condition after cleaning.

Deposit and wear

Normal wear is typically the landlord's cost, while damage beyond normal use may be charged to the tenant. Check your lease and ask your agency for the guidelines they follow.

Booking help

A move-out clean from eStreet! is priced by room size, from ¥26,000 for a 1R/1K to ¥65,000 for a 4LDK. We do not promise deposit outcomes.

Understand what you are responsible for

In Japan, tenants are generally expected to return a flat in a reasonably clean state, but not to repair normal wear and tear. Rules and customs differ between contracts, and the move-out inspection is where the condition is discussed. Read your lease and the guidance of your agent, and take photos on move-in and move-out. Cleaning will not remove damage, but it prevents avoidable deductions caused by dirt.

A room-by-room checklist

Kitchen: degrease the stove surround and hood exterior, clean the sink, wipe cabinet fronts, clean the fridge space and floor edges. Bathroom: remove mould and soap scum, descale taps, clean the drain trap and the ventilation cover. Toilet and basin: clean thoroughly, including behind the toilet. Rooms: wipe skirting boards, switches and doors, vacuum and wipe floors, clean windows and the balcony. Check cupboards and wardrobes for dust and left items.

Timing and logistics

Book the clean after your belongings have gone and before the inspection. Check that electricity and water are still connected on the day, as many cleaners need them. Avoid the peak weeks in March and September if possible, and book early if not. Leave keys as arranged. Keep the receipt or invoice from a professional cleaner, as it can help if the landlord questions the condition. Photos taken after cleaning are the best record.

When to hire help

If you are busy moving, or the flat has heavy grease or mould, a professional clean saves time and stress. Our move-out clean is ¥26,000 for a 1R/1K up to ¥65,000 for a 4LDK, tax and 23-ward travel included, and covers the kitchen, bathroom, toilet, basin and floors. For larger or heavier cases, send photos and we quote by message before the visit, with the price fixed. It cannot guarantee how a deposit is settled, which is between you and the landlord.

Common questions

Do I have to clean before the agent inspects? It is generally expected that you leave the flat reasonably clean. Will cleaning increase my deposit refund? It can help avoid deductions for dirt, but it cannot replace normal wear and tear and the final decision is between you and the landlord. Can I hire a cleaner after the inspection? Check your lease, because some agents require cleaning before. Should I clean the air conditioner? If you own it or the contract requires it.

Photos, receipts and your records

On move-in, take dated photos of the condition of each room, and keep them. On move-out, take photos after cleaning. Keep the invoice from any professional cleaning. If there is a dispute about deductions, these records are your best evidence. Send photos to yourself by email, so they are stored in a dated place. If you are moving abroad, make sure you have copies before you leave Japan.

A 48-hour countdown

Two days before: finish packing the kitchen, and defrost the fridge. One day before: clean the bathroom, clear the cupboards, and take out the final rubbish. On the day: vacuum, wipe floors, clean windows, check cupboards and switches, take photos and hand over the keys. If a professional is coming, schedule them for the day before inspection. A short countdown keeps you focused and prevents last-minute panic.