Tenant responsibilities when moving out: a landlord’s guide

It’s vital for landlords to understand the tenant responsibilities when moving out at the end of the rental agreement period. This understanding will help produce a smooth transition period and reduce confusion or disputes over the repayment of the tenancy deposit.

Tenants are expected to leave the property in a similar condition to how they found it when they moved in. A common question landlords have is: are tenants responsible for cleaning when moving out? 

This comprehensive guide will outline the key tasks tenants are responsible for. It will offer practical advice on conducting final inspections, communicating with tenants regarding any issues, and help ensure that all responsibilities are clearly outlined in the tenancy agreement to foster a smooth and fair move-out process for both parties.

What are the tenant’s responsibilities when moving out?

Tenant responsibilities when moving out all link back to the point of leaving the property in the same condition as they found it. This includes minor repairs but does not include fair wear and tear, as this is the landlord’s responsibility.

Are tenants responsible for cleaning when moving out?

Yes, tenants are responsible for cleaning the property when moving out. This includes cleaning the windows, carpets, kitchen and bathroom so that the property is in the same condition as it was when they moved in. Tenants can call in a professional cleaning service to help them complete this task. Checkatrade can help identify cleaning services in your area. 

Are tenants responsible for minor repairs when moving out?

Yes, tenants should complete minor repairs before moving out. This can include anything from filling in small holes in the walls to touching up paint scuffs that go beyond fair wear and tear. 

Are tenants responsible for the garden when moving out?

The garden should be left in a tidy condition, exactly as the tenant found it when they moved in. This might include mowing the lawn and removing some weeds. Any garden equipment and toys for children that the tenant has added should also be removed.

Removing personal belongings

Tenants must also remove any personal belongings, including their rubbish, from the property. Any items bought by the tenant, such as a fridge, should also be removed unless there is an agreement to say otherwise.

The importance of inventories and checklists

A property inventory is a detailed report that records the contents and condition of your property at the beginning of a tenant’s lease. This should include photos of the items to clarify the items’ condition. It covers everything from the condition of the walls and carpets to the number of forks in the kitchen. It should be checked regularly and updated accordingly.

This inventory will provide proof of the item’s condition and the number of items within the property. Whilst there is no legal requirement to complete an inventory, it is absolutely vital for landlords. It provides them with concrete evidence. 

If a tenant fails to complete a tenant responsibility when moving out, then landlords can use the inventory and checklist against them. 

The importance of a final inspection

A good inventory checklist made at the start of the tenancy needs to be accompanied by a detailed final inspection. A thorough final inspection is critical to verifying that tenant responsibilities when moving out have been met.

The landlord should compare the property’s condition to the original inventory and checklist. The landlord should document any problem with the property using photos and written notes. This makes it easier to compare. The landlord can invite the tenant back to the property, where they can discuss concerns.

Common issues with tenant responsibilities when moving out 

Several areas often require attention as part of tenant responsibilities when moving out. The most common include carpets, windows, gardens and damages beyond fair wear and tear. Here’s a breakdown of common tasks and how to manage them:

If the tenant neglects responsibilities when moving out, the landlord will want to fix them so they are ready for the next tenancy. For example, if the tenant neglects cleaning, the landlord will need to call in a professional cleaning service. 

The landlord will then pass on the cost to the tenant by deducting it from the security deposit. If the tenant disputes this, the landlord can show them the detailed inventory list for proof. This evidence will provide the landlord with a solid foundation in their case that is tough to argue against.

Determining damages beyond fair wear and tear is perhaps the most challenging area for a landlord to defend against. Tenants must repair or pay for these issues as part of their tenant responsibilities when moving out. Landlords should provide evidence, such as photos, to justify deposit deductions.

Fair wear and tear is reasonable damage through everyday use. Damage caused by a tenant is often more substantial, committed on purpose, by accident, or through neglect. What is classed as fair wear and tear versus damage caused by the tenant can often be debatable. This further stresses the importance of completing a detailed inventory list with photos showing all fixtures, fittings and furnishings.

Practical advice for landlords and tenants

To ensure the process is as smooth as possible, landlords must clearly outline tenant responsibilities when moving out in the tenancy agreement. This removes doubt over various questions, such as whether tenants are responsible for cleaning when moving out. 

Both parties should do everything they can to ensure a positive relationship between the tenant and the landlord. This helps build up a good rapport, which hopefully helps reduce tension if a dispute occurs.

Tenants need to keep on top of repairs and cleaning throughout the tenancy but then plan ahead before the end of the tenancy so that any outstanding issues or tasks can be completed on time. 

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