Your security deposit is on the line. In Marin County, where average rents run $2,800–$4,500 per month for a two-bedroom, security deposits typically equal one to two months' rent — between $2,800 and $9,000. Landlords in California can legally deduct for cleaning costs that exceed normal wear and tear, and "normal wear and tear" is interpreted narrowly by most property managers.
This checklist covers every room and surface that Marin County landlords and property managers inspect during move-out walkthroughs. Use the interactive checklist to track your progress, or hire a professional move-out cleaning service to handle everything at once.
Clean inside oven — remove racks, degrease walls and door
Clean oven racks (soak in hot soapy water)
Degrease range hood and replace filter if needed
Clean inside microwave — remove turntable and wash
Wipe down all cabinet fronts and drawer fronts
Clean inside all cabinets and drawers
Clean refrigerator inside and out — remove all shelves and drawers
Clean dishwasher interior — run a cleaning cycle
Degrease backsplash tiles
Scrub sink and faucet
Wipe down all countertops
Clean light fixtures and replace burned-out bulbs
Sweep and mop floor
California Security Deposit Law: What Marin Renters Need to Know
California Civil Code Section 1950.5 governs security deposit deductions. Landlords have 21 days after you vacate to return your deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions). They can deduct for cleaning costs — but only to restore the unit to the condition it was in when you moved in, accounting for normal wear and tear.
What landlords CAN deduct for
- Cleaning costs if the unit is left dirtier than move-in condition
- Carpet cleaning if carpets are stained (not just worn)
- Repairs for damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Replacing items you damaged or removed
What landlords CANNOT deduct for
- Normal wear and tear (minor scuffs, small nail holes, faded paint)
- Cleaning costs if the unit was already dirty when you moved in
- Repairs for pre-existing damage (document this at move-in)
- Costs that exceed the actual expense (landlords must provide receipts for deductions over $125)
Move-Out Cleaning Pricing in Marin County (2026)
| City | Studio / 1 BR | 2 BR / 2 BA | 3 BR / 2 BA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mill Valley | $240 | $280 | $350 |
| Tiburon | $240 | $280 | $350 |
| Sausalito | $240 | $280 | $350 |
| San Rafael | $240 | $280 | $350 |
| Novato | $240 | $280 | $350 |
| Corte Madera | $240 | $280 | $350 |
Move-out cleaning is priced at 1.5× the standard clean rate. All prices are flat-rate — no hidden fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book move-out cleaning in Marin County?
Book at least 1–2 weeks before your move-out date. Move-out cleaning slots fill up quickly at the end of the month (when most leases end). If you're moving at the end of the month, book 3–4 weeks in advance.
Should I clean before or after movers take my furniture?
Always clean after movers have removed all furniture. Furniture hides dust, dirt, and sometimes damage that needs to be addressed. Cleaning before the movers leave means you'll need to clean again after they're done.
What's the difference between a standard clean and a move-out clean?
A move-out clean is more thorough than a standard clean. It includes the inside of all cabinets and drawers, inside the oven and refrigerator, window tracks, baseboards, and all areas that are normally skipped during routine maintenance cleaning. It typically takes 2–3× longer than a standard clean.
Do I need to be present for the move-out cleaning?
No — most tenants provide access and leave. You'll receive a completion notification and can do a walkthrough after the cleaning is complete. We recommend being present for the final walkthrough with your landlord, not for the cleaning itself.
What if my landlord is still unhappy after a professional clean?
Green Planet Cleaning provides a satisfaction guarantee. If your landlord identifies specific areas that weren't cleaned to their standard, we'll return to address them at no additional charge. Keep your receipt — it demonstrates you made a good-faith effort to return the unit in clean condition.
Is professional move-out cleaning worth the cost?
Almost always yes. In Marin County, where deposits run $3,000–$9,000, a $280–$420 professional cleaning service is a small investment to protect your deposit. Landlords are more likely to make deductions when a unit is clearly not professionally cleaned.
Can I deduct move-out cleaning from my taxes?
Move-out cleaning for a rental property you lived in is not tax-deductible as a personal expense. However, if you used the property for business purposes (home office), a portion may be deductible. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
Protect Your Marin County Security Deposit
Green Planet Cleaning specializes in move-out cleaning across Marin County. Flat-rate pricing, satisfaction guarantee, and same-week availability.
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