Best Move-Out Cleaning in Florida Ranked

Moving out of a rental property in Florida is a significant task, and ensuring the space is thoroughly cleaned is crucial for securing your full security deposit. A professional move-out cleaning is a specialized deep clean designed to return the property to a condition that meets or exceeds the standards outlined in your lease agreement, often referred to as "broom clean." This service matters because it directly impacts your finances and your rental history. A well-executed clean can be the difference between getting your full deposit back and facing costly deductions. This guide explains what a Florida move-out cleaning entails, typical costs, and how you can find qualified local professionals to handle this important job efficiently.

Joy of Cleaning

136 4th St N Ste 201, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Joy of Cleaning is a residential cleaning company based in St. Petersburg, serving the Tampa Bay area. Established in 2016, they offer a range of services including deep cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and post-construction cleaning. Their team is trained to provide detailed and customized cleaning tailored to each home, using their own supplies and equipment. The company emphasizes a personal touch and community involvement, with a focus on treating each home with care. They also provide a satisfaction guarantee and are fully insured and bonded.

5.0

769 Reviews

Epic Cleaning LLC

8050 Baymeadows Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Epic Cleaning LLC is a carpet and deep cleaning service provider based in Jacksonville, FL. They offer a range of cleaning services including carpet, tile and grout, upholstery, mattress, and car carpet cleaning. The company is known for its ability to remove stubborn stains, steam clean tiles, and refresh furniture and vehicle interiors. With over four years of experience, Epic Cleaning LLC serves clients in Jacksonville and surrounding areas, focusing on restoring floors and furniture to a clean and refreshed state.

5.0

306 Reviews

Fresh Look Home Cleaning

3165 Kernan Lake Cir APT 106, Jacksonville, FL 32246

Fresh Look Home Cleaning is a family-owned house cleaning company based in Jacksonville, FL. They offer professional residential cleaning services including deep cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and recurring housekeeping. Their team uses hospital-grade disinfectants and green cleaning products to ensure thorough and safe cleaning tailored to each client's needs. Founded to provide consistent and trustworthy cleaning with familiar staff, Fresh Look emphasizes trust and professionalism in the Jacksonville community.

5.0

306 Reviews

Clean My Mess Cleaning Services Miami

2701 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33137

Clean My Mess Cleaning Services Miami offers tailored cleaning solutions in Miami, FL, including house cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and post-construction cleaning. Their services cover detailed tasks such as removing construction debris, dust, and paint splatters to prepare homes for immediate use. The company emphasizes eco-friendly cleaning methods and provides customizable cleaning packages to fit individual needs. Their team consists of trained professionals who follow comprehensive checklists to ensure thorough care. Clean My Mess aims to create a user-friendly experience and brings a fresh approach to cleaning in the Miami area.

5.0

231 Reviews

Magico Cleaners

340 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33131

Magico Cleaners is a cleaning service company based in Miami, FL, offering residential and commercial cleaning across Miami and Broward. Their services include house cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in/move-out cleaning, post-construction cleaning, and short-term rental cleaning, with additional offerings such as window cleaning and handyman services. They emphasize eco-friendly practices by using non-toxic, environmentally responsible products. Magico Cleaners operates 24/7 and provides a 24-hour clean warranty on all services, ensuring customer satisfaction and peace of mind.

5.0

211 Reviews

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What is a Move-Out Cleaning?

Unlike regular housekeeping, a move-out cleaning in Florida is a comprehensive, top-to-bottom service. Its primary goal is to leave the property in a condition acceptable to a landlord or property manager for the next tenant. This often means returning the unit to a state similar to when you first moved in, free of damage and deeply sanitized. ^{1 2} While many leases mention a "broom clean" standard-which technically means swept or vacuumed floors with all trash removed-in practice, landlords and property management companies in Florida typically expect a much higher level of cleanliness to justify returning your full security deposit. ^{3 4} A professional service ensures no detail is overlooked, from the inside of the oven to the tops of door frames.

The Florida Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

A thorough move-out clean covers every room and surface. Here's a detailed breakdown of what professional cleaners will typically address in a Florida home or apartment.

Kitchen

The kitchen is a major focus area for inspections. Professionals will clean:

• Appliances Inside and Out: This includes degreasing the stovetop and oven, cleaning the interior and exterior of the refrigerator (including shelves and drawers), wiping down the microwave interior, and running a cleaning cycle or wiping out the dishwasher. ^{3 5}
• Cabinets and Drawers: Wiping down all exterior surfaces and cleaning interiors to remove crumbs and dust.
• Countertops and Backsplash: Sanitizing all surfaces and removing any stains or adhesive residue.
• Sink and Disposal: Scrubbing the sink, polishing the faucet, and cleaning the garbage disposal. ⁶

Bathrooms

Bathrooms require intensive sanitization to remove soap scum, mildew, and hard water stains.

• Shower/Tub: Scrubbing walls, doors, and floors to eliminate soap scum and mildew. Re-caulking is not typically a cleaning service but may be noted. ⁷
• Toilet: Cleaning inside the bowl, under the rim, and all exterior surfaces, including the base and tank. ²
• Sink and Vanity: Polishing fixtures, cleaning the basin, and wiping down the vanity cabinet.
• Mirrors and Glass: Streak-free cleaning of all mirrors and any glass shower doors. ⁸
• Floors and Walls: Mopping floors and spot-cleaning walls for splashes.

Living Areas, Bedrooms, and Hallways

These areas require detailed dusting and vacuuming.

• All Surfaces: Dusting ceiling fans, light fixtures, shelves, window sills, and all furniture (if left behind). ⁹
• Walls and Woodwork: Spot-cleaning walls for scuffs, fingerprints, and marks. Wiping down baseboards, door frames, and doors. ¹⁰
• Vents and Switches: Dusting air return vents and wiping light switches and outlet covers.

Floors

Floor cleaning is a critical component of the "broom clean" standard.

• Carpets: Thorough vacuuming, including edges and corners. Many Florida leases, especially in family or pet-friendly rentals, may require professional carpet shampooing as a condition for full deposit return. ^{11 9}
• Hard Surfaces: Sweeping and mopping tile, wood, laminate, or vinyl floors.

Additional Areas and Tasks

• Windows: Cleaning interior window glass and tracks; exterior cleaning may be an add-on service. ⁵
• Laundry Area: Wiping down the washer and dryer, inside and out, and cleaning lint traps. ⁸
• Closets: Removing all items and vacuuming/sweeping the floors.
• Patio/Balcony & Garage: Sweeping to remove debris and cobwebs. ⁶
• Final Touches: Removing all trash, replacing burnt-out lightbulbs, and ensuring smoke detectors are functional. ¹⁰

Understanding Your Lease and "Broom Clean" Standards

Before you clean or hire a service, your first step should be to review your lease agreement carefully. The lease is the legal document that defines your obligations. ²

• Specific Requirements: Some leases explicitly require professional cleaning, particularly for carpets. Others may specify that appliances must be cleaned or that windows must be washed. Failing to meet these written requirements is a sure way to incur deductions. ¹
• The "Broom Clean" Clause: While this term is common, its interpretation can vary. Legally, it may mean the property is free of trash and debris with floors swept. However, in the Florida rental market, it is often interpreted more broadly to mean "rent-ready" or "showable" condition. When in doubt, aim for a deep clean that would satisfy a new tenant moving in. ^{3 4}
• Documentation: It is highly advisable to take dated photos or video of the clean, empty property before you return the keys. This provides evidence of the condition you left it in should any dispute arise with the landlord.

Cost of Move-Out Cleaning in Florida

The cost for a professional move-out cleaning in Florida is not a flat fee; it varies based on several key factors. Understanding these can help you budget and interpret quotes accurately.

Primary Pricing Factors:

• Property Size and Layout: The square footage and number of bedrooms/bathrooms are the biggest cost drivers. A one-bedroom apartment will cost significantly less than a four-bedroom house.
• Condition of the Property: A well-maintained home that just needs a detailed clean will cost less than one that has heavy soil, built-up grease, or pet stains. The level of effort required is a major component of pricing. ¹²
• Scope of Work: Standard cleaning includes the checklist items above. Add-on services like interior window washing, carpet shampooing, exterior patio pressure washing, or cleaning inside cabinets will increase the price. ¹¹
• Location: Rates can be higher in major metropolitan areas like Miami, Tampa, or Orlando compared to more rural parts of the state.

Pricing Models:

• Flat Rate/Project-Based: This is the most common and transparent method for move-out cleans. Companies assess the job (often via a virtual walk-through) and provide a total price. In Florida, you can expect a range from $150 to $500 or more for a typical single-family home or large apartment. ^{13 14} Some companies may quote a per-square-foot rate, such as $0.15 to $0.25. ¹³
• Hourly Rate: Some cleaners or smaller operations charge by the hour, typically between $25 to $50 per cleaner, per hour. ¹⁵ A deep move-out clean for an average home often takes a team of 2-3 people several hours, which can make the total cost comparable to a flat rate.

It's always best to get detailed, written quotes from a few providers that explicitly list what is and is not included in the price.

Finding and Selecting a Reliable Service

Choosing the right professional is key to a stress-free move. Look for services that specialize in or frequently perform move-out or "end of tenancy" cleans. They will be familiar with landlord expectations and the detailed checklist required. Always ask for proof of insurance and bonding to protect yourself and the property. Read reviews specifically mentioning move-out cleaning, and don't hesitate to ask for references. A reputable company should be willing to provide a detailed checklist of what their service includes and may even offer a re-clean guarantee if the landlord is not satisfied with the initial result.

Frequently asked questions

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