Giving Notice
Before anything else, check your tenancy agreement for the required notice period — typically one or two months. Give notice in writing (email is usually acceptable) and keep proof. Confirm your exact move-out date and any check-out appointment requirements.
4 Weeks Before
Book check-out, arrange removals, start decluttering.
2 Weeks Before
Book professional cleaning, start packing, update addresses.
1 Week Before
Deep clean room by room, handle repairs and touch-ups.
Moving Day
Final meter readings, photos of every room, return all keys.
After Moving Out
Submit final bills, await deposit return within 10 days.
Four Weeks Before Moving Out
Administrative Tasks:
- Book your check-out appointment with the agent
- Arrange removals or van hire
- Set up mail redirection with Royal Mail
- Notify utilities of your move-out date
- Arrange final meter readings for moving day
Start Decluttering:
- Dispose of unwanted items responsibly
- Donate to charity shops
- Recycle what you can
- Don't leave anything behind — you could be charged
Two Weeks Before Moving Out
Cleaning Preparation:
- Book professional end-of-tenancy cleaning if required
- Check your inventory for the property's original condition
- Identify any repairs you need to address
- Start packing non-essential items
Address Changes:
- Update your address with: bank, GP, dentist, employer, HMRC, DVLA, insurance providers, subscriptions
One Week Before Moving Out
Deep Cleaning Areas:
- Oven and hob (inside and out)
- Fridge and freezer (defrost freezer)
- Kitchen cupboards (inside and out)
- Bathroom tiles, grout, and sealant
- Windows (inside and outside if accessible)
- Carpets (consider professional cleaning)
- Skirting boards and door frames
- Light switches and sockets
- Extractor fans and vents
Repairs and Touch-Ups:
- Fill small holes from picture hooks
- Touch up scuff marks on walls (use matching paint)
- Replace any blown light bulbs
- Fix anything you've damaged
Moving Day
Before You Leave:
- Take final meter readings and photograph them
- Remove all belongings (check cupboards, loft, shed, garden)
- Complete all cleaning
- Return property to its original condition
- Take dated photos of every room as evidence
Key Return:
- Return all keys at the agreed time and place
- Get a receipt or written confirmation
- Keep copies of all correspondence
After Moving Out
Utilities:
- Submit final meter readings to suppliers
- Pay final bills
- Cancel or transfer council tax
Deposit:
- Your landlord has 10 days to return your deposit or raise deductions
- If you disagree with deductions, use the deposit scheme's free dispute resolution service
- Keep all evidence: photos, receipts, correspondence
Common Deposit Deduction Reasons
Landlords can deduct for:
- Cleaning if the property isn't left as clean as it was at check-in
- Damage beyond fair wear and tear
- Missing items listed on the inventory
- Unpaid rent or bills
- Unreturned keys
- Garden maintenance if required in your agreement
Protect Your Deposit
Avoiding Disputes
The key to getting your full deposit back is documentation. Your check-in photos and inventory are your evidence. If you've maintained the property well and left it clean, you should receive your deposit in full.
Haus Estates Support
Our team is here to help make your move-out as smooth as possible. If you have questions about your tenancy end, check-out process, or deposit, contact us anytime.
