End-of-tenancy handover checklist: cleaning, reinstatement and handover records

Key answers

For end-of-tenancy handover, first confirm cleaning, reinstatement and any items left behind under the tenancy agreement, then arrange removal, meter readings and key handover; handover does not necessarily mean the full deposit will be returned.

Confirm the scope first according to the tenancy agreement and written correspondence

Check the tenancy agreement, handover records and written correspondence with the landlord or agent to confirm which items are to be left, which need to be dismantled or restored. If responsibility is unclear, confirm with the relevant parties first; for legal or dispute matters, seek appropriate professional advice.

Do not assume all self-installed items can be left in place, and do not dispose of original fixtures together with them. Put the confirmed items into a list for the people arranging the move, cleaning and reinstatement to use.

Schedule the move, cleaning and reinstatement separately

First understand the sequence of work and the time required, so you do not schedule a full clean before large items have been moved, or still need to move goods through the same area after reinstatement. Whether this can be done on the same day depends on the process and the site, so it should not be assumed to be possible in every case.

1. Confirm items to keep or discard and the scope of work
2. Arrange the move and the confirmed items to be discarded
3. Have the required reinstatement and cleaning completed by the appropriate personnel
4. Carry out the final check and record the handover condition with the other party

Create a separate list for disposal and dismantling items

List the quantity and location of large furniture, appliances, shelving or other items separately, and confirm how they are to be moved out, dismantled and handled. Do not dismantle or reconnect any part involving water, electricity, gas or building facilities yourself; first confirm the person responsible and the requirements.

Any dismantling or disposal service requiring company assistance should be checked and quoted in advance, and should not be replaced by the general moving list. Common areas and fire escapes must not be used as temporary dumping areas, and do not leave items behind unless it has been confirmed that someone will receive them.

Take photos before handover, record the meter readings and keep the documents

Take overall and detail photos by room, and check the arrangements for ending or transferring accounts for water, electricity and gas metres and related accounts. Confirm the procedures and dates separately with the service providers; do not assume they will automatically be terminated on the day of removal.

Keys, access cards and retained equipment should be itemised and checked with the receiving party for the handover time and method. Photos and records should be kept in one place to avoid having only partial images left in different messaging apps with no way to compare them.

Deposit and disputes to be handled according to the actual agreement

Completion of handover does not mean the deposit will necessarily be refunded immediately or in full; this will depend on the tenancy agreement, confirmation by both parties and the applicable rules. If there is a dispute, first organise the tenancy agreement, move-in and handover records, then seek advice from the appropriate professional channel.

The moving company can arrange moving and related services within the confirmed scope, but it cannot replace the landlord’s confirmation of reinstatement standards or guarantee the deposit outcome. If extra work is needed, please obtain clear requirements first and then assess whether arrangements can be made.

Frequently Asked Questions