What counts as normal wear and tear in Oregon?

Minor scuffs, faded paint, or small nail holes typically count as normal wear and tear; landlords cannot deduct for these.

Can my landlord require professional carpet cleaning?

Only if your lease says so and the carpet was professionally cleaned before you moved in; otherwise, this is not allowed.

How long does my landlord have to return my deposit after move-out?

Oregon law requires landlords to return the deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 31 days.

What should I do if I disagree with cleaning charges?

Request an itemized statement, respond in writing, and if not resolved, file in small claims court using documentation.

Is there an official government form for cleaning disputes?

Use the Request for Deposit Return Letter from Oregon Housing and Community Services for security deposit and cleaning disputes.

Oregon Move-Out Cleaning Requirements: What Renters Need to Know

Moving Out & Ending a Lease Oregon published: June 21, 2025

Moving out of a rental in Oregon comes with a final walk-through, known as the move-out inspection. Understanding cleaning standards in Oregon can help you avoid unnecessary charges and ensure the return of your security deposit. Here's what renters in Oregon need to know about cleaning expectations, your rights under Oregon law, and where to turn if disputes arise.

Understanding Oregon Move-Out Cleaning Standards

Oregon law requires that, when your tenancy ends, you return the rental "in the same condition as when you moved in," except for normal wear and tear. Landlords may not require you to leave the unit cleaner than when you arrived, nor can they deduct for damages that are due to everyday use. Details are covered in the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹

What Is Considered Normal Wear and Tear?

Minor scuffs on floors and walls from everyday living
Fading paint or carpet due to sunlight
Worn carpet from regular use, not large stains or burns
Small nail holes for hanging pictures

Landlords cannot deduct from your security deposit for these issues. However, they may deduct costs for cleaning excessive dirt, removing trash, or damage beyond normal use.

Suggested Cleaning Checklist for Oregon Tenants

Remove all personal belongings and trash
Wipe down counters, appliances, and cabinets
Clean bathrooms thoroughly (sink, toilet, tub/shower, mirrors)
Vacuum and/or mop floors
Spot clean walls and doors of marks or smudges
Check closets and storage spaces for left items
Replace any burned-out light bulbs

This list helps renters avoid most cleaning deductions, but landlords cannot require "professional" or "beyond move-in" cleaning unless stated in your lease, and even then, Oregon law limits this right.

Move-Out Inspections: What to Expect

Oregon law does not require a formal move-out inspection with your landlord present, but many reputable landlords offer a walk-through. You have a right to request a walk-through to see what cleaning or repairs may be needed.

It is good practice to do your own detailed inspection and take dated photos before you leave.
Ask for an itemized list if the landlord claims cleaning is needed after move-out.

If your landlord withholds part or all of your deposit for cleaning, they must provide an itemized written accounting within 31 days of your move-out (see ORS 90.300).²

Oregon Security Deposit Requirements & Official Forms

Security Deposit Refund Statement: Oregon law doesn't have a specific form, but the landlord is required by ORS 90.300 to send an itemized statement. If you didn’t receive your full deposit or proper statement, you can use the Request for Deposit Return Letter template provided by Oregon Housing and Community Services.
Request for Deposit Return Letter: Use this if you do not get your security deposit or an accounting within 31 days. Fill it out with your details, sign, and send to your landlord. Download the official template.

If negotiation fails, renters can apply to Oregon’s court system (see the section below on dispute resolution) for the return of their deposit.

Tip: Take photos and videos of your cleaned space right before handing back the keys. This documentation is helpful if cleaning charges are disputed later.

Disputing Cleaning Charges in Oregon

If your landlord makes deductions for cleaning you believe are unfair or not supported by Oregon law, you can:

Write a letter referencing ORS 90.300 demanding your deposit or an explanation of charges.
If the issue is unresolved, file a claim in Oregon small claims or landlord-tenant court.
Contact Oregon Housing and Community Services or local legal aid for assistance.

The official body handling residential rental disputes in Oregon is the Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord/Tenant division. You can find local court information and filing instructions on their official website.³

FAQ: Oregon Move-Out Cleaning for Renters

What counts as "normal wear and tear" in Oregon?
Minor scuffs, faded paint or carpet, and small nail holes generally qualify as normal wear and tear. Excessive dirt or damage does not.
Can my landlord require professional carpet cleaning?
Only if your lease agreement specifically says so and the carpet was professionally cleaned before your move-in. Otherwise, the landlord cannot require you to pay for "better-than-move-in" cleaning.
How long does my landlord have to return my deposit after move-out?
Oregon law requires landlords to return your security deposit or an itemized statement of deductions within 31 days after you move out.
What should I do if I disagree with cleaning charges?
Request an itemized deduction statement, respond in writing, and if unresolved, consider small claims court with documentation and the official Request for Deposit Return Letter.
Is there an official government form for cleaning disputes?
Not for cleaning specifically, but you should use the Oregon "Request for Deposit Return Letter" when disputing security deposit deductions, including for cleaning.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord/Tenant Court: Handles rental deposit disputes and landlord-tenant cases.
Oregon Housing and Community Services – Tenant Resources: Official guides, forms, and tenant education materials.
Oregon State Bar Referral and Information Service: Free legal guidance and referrals for tenants.
Legal Aid Services of Oregon: Free legal help for low-income renters regarding housing disputes, evictions, or deposit issues.

Oregon Legislature, Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
Oregon Legislature, ORS 90.300 - Security Deposits
Oregon Judicial Department, Landlord and Tenant Court Resources