Move-Out Cleaning Requirements for Renters in New York

Preparing to move out of your rental in New York? Following proper cleaning standards can help ensure you get your security deposit back and avoid unnecessary disputes. Knowing what is required and your rights under New York State law will make your move smoother and stress-free.

Understanding Move-Out Cleaning Standards in New York

New York law requires that renters return their apartment in the same condition as when they moved in, minus ordinary wear and tear. "Ordinary wear and tear" means damage or changes that happen naturally over time, such as carpet fading or minor scuff marks. Landlords cannot demand a higher cleaning standard than is reasonable or deduct for normal wear.

What Does "Broom Clean" Mean?

Most New York leases require renters to leave the unit "broom clean." This means:

• Floors swept or vacuumed
• Trash and belongings removed from all rooms, closets, cabinets, and refrigerator
• Kitchen and bathroom surfaces wiped clean
• No excessive wall marks, stains, or damage

Extensive scrubbing, carpet shampooing, or professional cleaning is generally not necessary unless agreed in your lease or unless there is damage beyond normal use.

Security Deposit and Cleaning Deductions

Under New York Real Property Law § 7-108, landlords can deduct from the security deposit only for actual damage beyond normal wear and tear. Excessive dirt, pests caused by neglect, or unremoved trash can result in deductions.

Move-Out Inspection: What to Expect

Landlords are not required by state law to perform a joint move-out inspection, but many do. If requested, New York landlords must offer tenants an inspection at least one week before move-out. This inspection gives renters a chance to fix cleaning or damage issues that could affect their deposit.

To request an inspection, contact your landlord in writing after giving your notice to vacate.

Tips for Meeting New York Cleaning Standards

• Check your lease for specific cleaning requirements
• Take photos/videos after cleaning as proof for the final inspection
• Dispose of all trash and personal items
• Leave utility accounts in good standing until move-out date

Relevant Forms for New York Renters

• Tenant Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (No official form number):
  Helps document the condition of the apartment when moving in or out. Use this checklist to note cleanliness and any damage, then share a signed copy with your landlord. See template in the NY State Department of Homes and Community Renewal Tenant's Rights Guide (page 25).
• Request for Move-Out Inspection (Written Notice):
  If you want a pre-move-out inspection, you should request this in writing. No specific form is required, but make sure to include the proposed move-out date and your contact information. Sample wording is offered in the official New York State tenant resources.

No filing fee applies for these notices. Always keep a copy for your records.

Where to Turn if a Dispute Arises

The New York City Housing Court (or your local municipal/small claims court elsewhere in New York) handles landlord-tenant disputes, including those over cleaning deductions taken from security deposits. You have the right to contest improper deductions under New York Real Property Law.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to hire a professional cleaner when moving out of my New York apartment?
   Most leases require "broom clean" condition, which does not mean professional cleaning unless your lease specifically states it.
2. What can a landlord legally deduct from my security deposit for cleaning?
   Only the cost for cleaning beyond normal wear and tear, such as removing excessive stains, pests caused by neglect, or trash left behind.
3. What is considered ordinary wear and tear in New York?
   Minor carpet wear, faded paint, or small nail holes from hanging pictures are considered ordinary and cannot result in deductions.
4. How do I request a move-out inspection?
   Send a written request to your landlord after you give notice of moving out; they must accommodate this at least one week before your move-out date.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord withholds my deposit unfairly?
   You can file a claim in New York City Housing Court or your local small claims court to resolve the dispute.

Key Takeaways for New York Renters

• Leave your rental "broom clean" to avoid unnecessary cleaning deductions.
• Document your cleaning and apartment condition before returning keys.
• Use official New York tenant resources for forms and guides.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NY State Homes and Community Renewal – Renter Protections Page: Official state information on tenant rights, cleaning requirements, and deposit law.
• New York City Housing Court: Handles disputes over deposits and move-out cleaning.
• NY Tenant's Rights Guide: Comprehensive guide on leases, deposits, and moving out.
• NYC 311 Portal: Report building issues or get support with landlord-tenant matters in New York City.

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1. New York Real Property Law § 7-108 – Security deposits and cleaning rights
2. NY State Tenant's Rights Guide (2022), page 25
3. New York City Housing Court – Landlord/Tenant Information
4. NYS Homes and Community Renewal – Renter Protections
5. Know Your Rights as a Tenant in New York

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