When a Tenant Moves Out: What “Good Condition” Really Means
By Easton Mosteller Property Management
Well-maintained rental home with neat landscaping, representing good tenant move-out condition.
Every property owner has heard it: “We left it the way we found it.” Sometimes that’s true — and sometimes… not quite.
When a tenant moves out, there’s often confusion about what “leaving it clean and in good condition” really means. Our goal at Easton Mosteller Property Management is to make sure everyone — owner and tenant — knows what’s expected long before moving day.
1. The Basics: Clean, Empty, and Functional
- Completely free of personal belongings and trash (no surprise couches).
- Floors swept, vacuumed, and mopped.
- Kitchens cleaned — that means appliances wiped out, fridge emptied, oven degreased, and counters clear.
- Bathrooms scrubbed — fixtures cleaned, mirrors wiped, and no mildew in tubs or showers.
- Yard maintained — lawn mowed, leaves removed, and no new damage to landscaping.
2. Repairs vs. Normal Wear
We don’t expect a home to look brand new — but we do expect tenants to take responsibility for damage beyond normal use.
- Normal wear: minor scuffs on walls, light carpet wear, or a nail hole or two.
- Damage: broken blinds, missing smoke detectors, holes larger than a nail, pet stains, or unapproved paint colors.
3. Utilities, Keys, and Forwarding Info
Before move-out, tenants should:
- Leave utilities active through the final inspection day.
- Return all keys, garage remotes, and mailbox keys.
- Provide a forwarding address for the security deposit return.
We handle the final inspection with photos, checklists, and documentation — the same way we protect your property at move-in.
4. Why It Matters
Leaving a home clean and intact isn’t just about deposits — it’s about respect. For tenants, it ensures a smooth reference for future rentals. For owners, it means your property can go back on the market quickly, with minimal cost or delay.
At Easton Mosteller Property Management, we set expectations clearly from day one so move-outs don’t turn into surprises. The result? Happier tenants, cleaner transitions, and well-cared-for properties.
Thinking About Hiring a Property Manager?
Whether you own one rental or several, we handle the details that keep your investment protected — from move-in photos to final walkthroughs.
Easton Mosteller Property Management
7875 CrossVillage Dr, Germantown, TN 38138
mosteller.michael@gmail.com
901-870-3692
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