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Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Brunswick, GA Renters

The room-by-room guide to getting your full security deposit back

May 18, 2025 ยท 7 min read

Clean empty apartment room ready for move-out inspection in Brunswick Georgia

Moving out of your Brunswick, GA apartment or rental? Your security deposit is on the line. In Glynn County, landlords can deduct cleaning costs from your deposit if the property isn't returned in the same condition. This room-by-room checklist covers exactly what landlords inspect โ€” so you can either DIY it or know what to expect from a professional move-out cleaning service.

Georgia Security Deposit Law

Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. ยง 44-7-34), landlords must return your security deposit within 30 days of move-out and provide an itemized list of any deductions. Cleaning is one of the most common deduction reasons. A professional move-out clean ($200โ€“$400) can save you $500โ€“$1,000+ in deposit deductions.

Room-by-Room Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

Kitchen

HIGH โ€” Most inspected room
Clean inside oven, remove all grease and burned food
Clean inside and behind refrigerator (pull out and clean under/behind)
Clean inside microwave
Wipe all countertops and backsplash
Clean inside all cabinets and drawers (remove crumbs, wipe down)
Clean sink and faucet โ€” remove hard water stains
Clean range hood and filter
Degrease stovetop
Wipe exterior of all appliances
Sweep and mop floor (including under appliances)
Clean light fixture and switch plates

Bathroom(s)

HIGH โ€” Second most inspected
Scrub and sanitize toilet (inside bowl, tank exterior, base)
Clean shower/tub โ€” remove soap scum, mildew, and hard water stains
Clean sink and faucet thoroughly
Clean mirror (streak-free)
Clean inside medicine cabinet and vanity
Remove any mold or mildew (especially along caulk lines)
Clean exhaust fan cover
Mop floor, paying attention to corners and behind toilet
Replace toilet seat if damaged (cheaper than deposit deduction)

Bedrooms & Living Areas

MEDIUM
Clean all closets (vacuum floor, wipe shelves, clean rod)
Remove all nails/hooks and fill holes with spackle
Clean scuff marks from walls (Magic Eraser works well)
Clean all windows (inside), window tracks, and blinds
Clean ceiling fan blades
Clean baseboards
Vacuum carpet (consider professional carpet cleaning if stained)
Mop hard floors
Clean light switches and outlet covers
Clean door handles and door frames

Throughout the Home

ESSENTIAL
Replace burned-out light bulbs
Replace HVAC filter
Clean washer/dryer lint trap and exterior
Clean inside washer drum (run a cleaning cycle)
Clean garage or storage area (sweep, remove all belongings)
Clean patio/balcony (sweep, wipe railings)
Clean front door and entry area
Remove all trash and belongings from property
Take photos of every room after cleaning for your records

Move-Out Cleaning Prices in Brunswick, GA

Not everyone has the time or energy to do a full move-out clean. Here's what professional move-out cleaning costs in the Brunswick and Glynn County area:

1 Bedroom

$200 โ€“ $250

Approx. 2โ€“3 hours

2 Bedrooms

$250 โ€“ $300

Approx. 3โ€“4 hours

3+ Bedrooms

$300 โ€“ $400

Approx. 4โ€“6 hours

DIY vs. Professional Move-Out Cleaning: Which Is Worth It?

FactorDIYProfessional
Cost$50โ€“$100 in supplies$200โ€“$400
Time6โ€“12 hours2โ€“4 hours (you do nothing)
QualityVariableConsistent, thorough
Deposit riskHigher โ€” easy to miss thingsLower โ€” professional standards
Stress levelHigh (on top of moving)Zero

Bottom line: If your security deposit is $800+, spending $200โ€“$300 on professional cleaning is almost always worth it. You recover the cost from your deposit and save yourself an exhausting day of scrubbing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Move-Out Cleaning in Brunswick, GA

How much does move-out cleaning cost in Brunswick, GA?

Professional move-out cleaning in Brunswick, GA typically costs $200โ€“$400, depending on the size of your apartment or home and its condition. A 1-bedroom apartment usually costs $200โ€“$250, a 2-bedroom runs $250โ€“$300, and a 3+ bedroom home costs $300โ€“$400. This investment almost always pays for itself by helping you recover your full security deposit.

What do landlords in Glynn County check during move-out inspection?

Landlords in Glynn County typically check: overall cleanliness of all rooms, inside of oven and refrigerator, bathroom fixtures (toilet, shower, tub), condition of floors and carpets, walls (scuff marks and nail holes), inside cabinets and closets, windows and blinds, light fixtures, and the condition of outdoor areas like patios or balconies. They compare the condition to the move-in checklist.

Can I get my full security deposit back if I hire a move-out cleaner?

In most cases, yes. Professional move-out cleaning addresses the most common reasons landlords deduct from security deposits. In Georgia, landlords must return your deposit within 30 days and provide an itemized list of any deductions. A professionally cleaned unit leaves little room for cleaning-related deductions.

How far in advance should I book move-out cleaning in Brunswick?

We recommend booking your move-out cleaning at least 5โ€“7 days in advance, especially during peak moving seasons (summer and end-of-month). If you need a last-minute cleaning, contact us as soon as possible โ€” we accommodate rush requests when schedules allow.

Do I need to be present during the move-out cleaning?

No, you do not need to be present. Most clients leave a key or arrange access with their landlord. We just need the home to be empty of personal belongings so we can clean every surface thoroughly. We can send you before-and-after photos when the job is done.

Need Move-Out Cleaning in Brunswick, GA?

Book now and get your deposit back. We serve all of Glynn County โ€” Brunswick, St Simons, Jekyll Island, and surrounding areas.

Text Us: (412) 274-1466Chat on WhatsApp