Your security deposit is waiting to be returned—or held by your landlord for mysterious charges. The difference between the two outcomes often comes down to move-out cleanliness and documentation. Here's how to ensure you get every shilling back.

Understand Your Deposit Agreement

Before you move out, review your lease:

  • What condition should the place be in? ("Clean," "broom swept," or "professional clean"?)
  • How long does the landlord have to return the deposit? (Usually 30-45 days)
  • What deductions are reasonable? (Damage yes, normal wear and tear no)
  • Can the landlord charge for repairs you caused vs. normal aging?
  • Get this in writing—verbal agreements don't hold up
Rental cleaning checklist

Professional Cleaning vs. DIY

Professional Move-Out Cleaning: ~KES 3,000–8,000

  • Pros: Guaranteed thoroughness, professional results, less stress
  • Cons: Extra cost, less control over process
  • Worth it: If your lease specifies "professional cleaning" or you want guaranteed return of deposit

DIY Cleaning: ~KES 1,000–2,000 (supplies only)

  • Pros: Save money, personal control
  • Cons: Time-consuming, risk of missing areas, landlord disputes possible
  • Worth it: If you have time and the lease allows self-cleaning

Complete Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

Kitchen:

  • Clean stovetop, oven, and range hood (inside and outside)
  • Wipe down and degrease cabinet fronts
  • Clean sink, faucet, and drain thoroughly
  • Clean refrigerator shelves (if refrigerator stays)
  • Sweep and mop floors

Bathrooms:

  • Scrub toilet bowl and exterior
  • Clean shower/bathtub (remove mold and soap buildup)
  • Polish fixtures and faucets
  • Wipe down mirrors and glass
  • Clean under sink and cabinets
  • Mop and disinfect floors

Living Areas:

  • Dust all surfaces and shelves
  • Wipe light switches and door handles
  • Clean baseboards and trim
  • Vacuum carpets thoroughly (or shampoo if needed)
  • Mop hard floors
  • Wipe down walls (erase any marks or scuffs)

Bedrooms:

  • Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
  • Wipe windows and window sills
  • Vacuum closets
  • Check for marks on walls (patch or paint if necessary)

Exterior/Common Areas:

  • Sweep balcony/patio if applicable
  • Clean gate and door exteriors
  • Ensure landscaping/garden is tidy

Document Everything

On Move-Out Day:

  • Take photos of every room clean and empty
  • Record video walkthrough showing condition
  • Note the time and date on photos
  • Keep all receipts for professional cleaning if done

Send to Landlord:

  • Email photos and video within 24 hours of move-out
  • Include move-out date and time
  • Ask landlord to confirm receipt
  • Request timeline for deposit return

Repair Any Damage

Before leaving, repair or document damage:

  • Patch nail holes: Use spackling paste, then paint over
  • Paint touch-ups: If walls have scuffs or marks, touch them up (cheap paint: KES 500–1,000)
  • Replace damaged fixtures: Light bulbs, screens, door handles should all work
  • Don't DIY major repairs: Tell landlord about damage you caused; they'll likely deduct from deposit anyway

Follow Up on Your Deposit

If deposit isn't returned within agreed timeframe:

  • Send written reminder (email or registered letter)
  • Ask for itemized deduction list if money is withheld
  • Challenge unreasonable deductions (cleaning, normal wear)
  • If landlord refuses, escalate to landlord-tenant board or small claims court

A thorough move-out cleaning, combined with photo documentation, is your best insurance that your deposit gets returned in full.