Move-Out Cleaning Guide: How Much Cleaning Is Required?
How much cleaning is needed when moving out, what counts as normal wear and tear, and tips to get more of your deposit back.
How Much Should You Clean?
When moving out of a rental, you only need to clean to the level of "removing dirt from normal daily living." You don't need to restore the apartment to brand-new condition. However, thorough cleaning can help you get more of your security deposit back.
Restoration Rules (Gensou Kaifuku)
Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism guidelines define responsibilities as follows:
Landlord's Responsibility (Normal Wear & Tear)
Discoloration of wallpaper from sunlight.
Floor dents from furniture placement.
Small pin or tack holes (that don't reach the backing board).
Equipment failures from aging.
Tenant's Responsibility
Cigarette smoke stains and odor on walls.
Pet scratches on walls or pillars.
Mold or grease buildup from neglected cleaning.
Nail or screw holes that reach the backing board.
Damage caused during the move.
Room-by-Room Cleaning Tips
Kitchen
Stovetop: Spray baking soda solution, wait 10 minutes, then wipe. Use cream cleanser for burnt residue.
Range hood filter: Soak in hot water with detergent for heavy grease.
Sink: Use citric acid spray for water stains. Don't forget the drain.
Bathroom & Toilet
Mold: Apply mold remover, wait 30+ minutes, then rinse.
Mirror scale: A citric acid pack works well.
Toilet: Use acidic cleaner for yellow stains. Don't forget the underside of the seat.
Walls, Floors & Windows
Wallpaper: Wipe with diluted neutral detergent.
Flooring: Damp wipe, then dry wipe.
Windows: Wipe with damp newspaper for streak-free results. Brush out dirt from the window tracks.
Tips to Get More Deposit Back
Keep move-in photos: They prove pre-existing damage.
Fix small damage yourself: Small wall holes can be filled with hardware store repair kits.
Attend the move-out inspection: Question any charges you don't agree with on the spot.
Know the guidelines: Understanding the official restoration guidelines gives you leverage in disputes.
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