October 16, 2026
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Before you return your keys, make sure you've taken care of the details that matter. From cleaning to providing a forwarding address, here's what to keep in mind when moving out.
Start by Reviewing Your Lease
Take a few minutes to review your lease and any move-out instructions provided by your landlord or property manager.
Look for notice requirements, cleaning expectations, and any steps you need to complete before returning your keys. Some properties may also have specific instructions for scheduling a move-out inspection or returning access devices.
If you’re unsure where to find this information or have questions about what’s expected, reach out to your landlord or property manager for clarification.
Plan for Utilities and Address Changes
If utilities are in your name, contact your providers to arrange for service to end or transfer to your new address. Be sure to check your lease or ask your landlord about when you should disconnect service, as some properties require utilities to remain active through a specific date.
Don’t forget to update your mailing address with your bank, employer, and any other important accounts. You can also set up mail forwarding through USPS online or at your local post office to help catch mail sent to your old address.
Clean the Property and Check Overlooked Areas
Cleaning may seem like an obvious step, but it’s worth reviewing your property’s specific move-out expectations. Follow the cleaning requirements outlined in your lease or move-out instructions. Check areas that may need additional cleaning, such as appliances, cabinets, and flooring.
Before leaving, check spaces that are easy to overlook during a move, including attics, basements, garages, sheds, and other storage areas. Make sure you properly dispose of unwanted belongings or trash, including larger items that regular trash pickup may not accept.
Check for Damage and Changes You’ve Made
Take a look around your rental for any damage or changes you’ve made during your tenancy. Pay particular attention to areas where you’ve installed shelves, mounted televisions, or hung decorations.
If you’ve put holes in the walls, check whether your lease requires you to fill them. The same applies to painting. Even if you had permission to change the wall color, your lease may require you to restore the original color before leaving.
Before attempting repairs or reversing any changes, check your lease or ask your landlord or property manager what’s expected. Some repairs may need to be handled a specific way, and attempting the wrong fix could create additional work and potentially lead to extra costs.
Document the Property’s Condition
Before returning your keys, take photos or videos of the rental’s condition after you’ve finished cleaning and removed your belongings.
Capture each room, including floors, walls, appliances, and any areas where damage or repairs may be a concern. If you completed a move-in checklist or took photos when you first moved in, keep those records alongside your move-out documentation for comparison.
Having records from both the beginning and end of your lease can be helpful if questions arise about the property’s condition or potential security deposit deductions.
Keep copies of your move-in checklist, photos, and videos until you’ve resolved any move-out questions and security deposit matters, in case any charges require further discussion.
Return Your Keys and Provide a Forwarding Address
Once you’ve finished moving out, return all keys, garage door openers, and other access devices according to your landlord or property manager’s instructions.
Be sure to provide your forwarding address in writing so your landlord or property manager knows where to send any remaining security deposit or related documentation. Setting up mail forwarding through USPS does not replace providing this information directly to your landlord or property manager.
Under Ohio law, landlords have 30 days after the rental agreement ends and the tenant returns possession of the property to account for the security deposit. This includes returning any remaining deposit and providing a written, itemized statement of deductions, if applicable.
Providing a forwarding address in writing is also important for protecting your rights regarding deposit deductions.
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Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Move-out requirements may vary depending on your lease, rental property, and applicable laws. Always review your rental agreement and contact your landlord or property manager with questions about your specific responsibilities.
At Buckeye Northwest Realty, we strive to provide clear information and expectations throughout the rental process. If you’re currently renting with us and have questions about moving out, please contact our team for guidance on your property’s move-out procedures.
