Room-by-room guide to pass your landlord's inspection and get your full security deposit back in Minneapolis.
Moving out of your Minneapolis apartment? Your security deposit depends on passing that final inspection. Minnesota law requires landlords to return your deposit within 21 days — but only if the property meets their cleanliness and damage standards.
This checklist covers every detail that Minneapolis landlords inspect. Whether you're leaving a studio in North Loop, a two-bedroom in Uptown, or a townhome in Bloomington, this is your playbook.
Pro tip: Schedule your cleaning after furniture is removed but before your final walkthrough. An empty unit is dramatically easier to clean and gives professionals full access to every surface.
Kitchen
☐ Oven interior — walls, floor, ceiling, door glass (both sides), door seal. Remove racks and clean separately. #1 inspection failure item.
☐ Stovetop — remove burner grates/coils, clean underneath. Scrub drip pans. Clean knobs and area behind them.
☐ Refrigerator — remove all shelves/drawers, wash each. Clean interior walls, ceiling, floor. Wipe door seals. Clean exterior and top.
☐ Dishwasher — run empty cycle with vinegar. Wipe interior, door edges, rubber seal. Clean bottom filter.
☐ Microwave — clean interior walls, ceiling, turntable, and door.
☐ Cabinets — every shelf, interior walls, inside of doors. Remove shelf liner. Clean exterior fronts near stove.
☐ Countertops, backsplash, sink, faucet — scrub grout, remove hard water deposits. Clean under the sink.
☐ Floor — sweep corners and baseboards. Mop thoroughly. Focus under stove and refrigerator area.
! Closet shelves — empty shelves still need wiping
! Dishwasher filter — food buildup causes odors
DIY vs. Hiring A Professional
A move-out clean on a two-bedroom takes most people 6-10 hours. A professional team of two completes it in 3-4 hours. When your deposit is $1,000-$2,000+ and a professional move-out clean costs $250-$400, the math is straightforward.
Our move-out cleaning is designed to pass landlord inspections. We clean to a detailed checklist covering every item property managers check and provide a receipt for your records. We serve renters throughout Minneapolis, St. Paul, Woodbury, and the entire Twin Cities.
Common Questions
Move-Out Cleaning FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about move-out cleaning in Minneapolis.
Book at least one week in advance, especially at month-end when demand peaks. If moving at month-end, book two weeks ahead to guarantee your time slot.
You can, but results are better with an empty unit. Ideally, schedule after movers take your belongings and before your final walkthrough.
Under Minnesota law, landlords must provide itemized deductions within 21 days. Having a receipt from a professional cleaning company strengthens your case if you need to dispute.
Standard move-out cleaning includes thorough vacuuming. Professional carpet shampooing is a separate service. Check your lease — some landlords require it regardless of condition.
A team of two completes a studio in 2-3 hours, two-bedroom in 3-4 hours, and three-bedroom in 4-5 hours. Condition and number of appliances are the biggest time factors.
Protect Your Deposit
Book Your Move-Out Clean Today
Designed to pass landlord inspections. Flat-rate pricing. Detailed receipt for your records.
