Moving out day: what to expect and what to do

Moving out day is mostly about leaving the property in the right condition and completing the handover of your keys, which in turn protects your deposit. If you’re not quite ready to move out and are looking for tips for getting ready, take a look at our guide to preparing to move out of a rented home.

Here’s what typically happens on moving-out day and how to prepare.

Moving out of a rented home usually includes:

• Vacating the property completely
• Returning keys
• Taking part in a final inspection or check-out

Make sure the property is fully empty

Before you leave, double check that everything has been removed.

That means:

• No personal belongings left behind
• All cupboards, drawers and storage spaces cleared
• Bins emptied and rubbish disposed of

Anything left behind may be removed by the landlord or agent, and in some cases you could be charged for this.

Leave the property in the right condition

The property should be returned in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for normal wear and tear.

On the day, focus on:

• A final clean of all rooms
• Wiping surfaces and appliances
• Checking for missed areas like inside cupboards or behind furniture

During the check-out, the condition will be compared against the original inventory, so it’s worth taking the time to get this right.

Be there for the check-out (if you can)

Many landlords or letting agents will arrange a final inspection. If possible, try to attend. This gives you the chance to:

• Answer any questions about the property
• Flag anything you’ve already addressed
• Understand any concerns straight away

If something can’t be found or clarified, being there can help avoid misunderstandings.

Put everything back where it belongs

If your property came with furniture or appliances, make sure these are:

• Returned to their original rooms or positions
• Easy to locate and check

This helps the inspection run smoothly and ensures everything matches the inventory.

Take photos before you leave

Before handing over the keys, take clear photos of:

• Each room
• Key fixtures (like appliances or bathrooms)
• Any areas you’re unsure about

This creates a record of the condition you left the property in, which can be useful if there are questions about your deposit later. They can also be compared against the inventory report that might have been put together when you moved in.

Record meter readings to settle final bills

On your last day:

• Take final gas, electricity and water readings
• Notify your utility providers
• Make sure any outstanding balances are paid

This helps close your accounts cleanly and avoids being charged after you’ve moved out.

Don’t forget your post

Once you’ve left, you won’t be able to collect anything delivered to the old address.

Consider:

• Setting up a mail forwarding service
• Updating your address with key providers

This ensures you don’t miss any important mail after your move out date.

Return the keys

Make sure you:

• Return all sets (including spares and fobs)
• Follow the agreed process with your landlord or agent
• Do this on time to avoid any extra charges

What happens after you’ve moved out?

After you’ve moved out:

• The landlord or agent will review the property condition
• Your deposit will be assessed based on that inspection
• You may be contacted if there are any questions or proposed deductions

Keeping evidence like receipts and photos can help if anything needs explaining later. Read more here about getting your deposit back.

A quick moving out day checklist

If you’re short on time, here’s a simple recap:

• Return all keys
• Empty the property completely
• Clean and check every room
• Take final photos
• Record meter readings
• Attend the check-out (if arranged)

Search homes to rent