Move-out: How to Leave the Property Properly
Move-out is the final step of your stay. A smooth move-out helps avoid misunderstandings, cleaning issues, missing items, and deposit delays.
The goal is simple: return the property in the condition required by your agreement, complete the handover, and leave a clear final record.
Confirm your move-out time
Before your final day, confirm the exact move-out date and time with the landlord or responsible person.
Make sure you know:
- When you need to leave
- Who will collect the keys
- Whether the landlord will inspect the property
- Whether HomeInZagreb will help with communication
- Where to leave keys if nobody is present
- Whether final utility readings are needed
Do not leave this for the last minute.
Clean the property properly
The property should be clean, tidy, and free of personal belongings.
Before leaving, check:
- Kitchen
- Bathroom
- Floors
- Fridge and freezer
- Oven and stove
- Dishes and kitchen items
- Trash and recycling
- Wardrobes and drawers
- Balcony, if applicable
- Shared areas, if applicable
If final cleaning is required or arranged by the landlord, follow the agreed instructions.
Remove all personal belongings
Check every room carefully before leaving.
Look inside:
- Closets
- Drawers
- Bathroom cabinets
- Kitchen cabinets
- Fridge and freezer
- Under the bed
- Storage areas
- Balcony
- Washing machine
- Mailbox, if used
Items left behind may be difficult to recover later.
Take final photos or videos
Before returning the keys, take photos or videos of the property.
This should include:
- Clean rooms
- Kitchen
- Bathroom
- Floors
- Furniture
- Appliances
- Walls and doors
- Any areas previously discussed
- Meter readings, if required
Final documentation helps show how the property was left at the end of the stay.
Return all keys
All keys, cards, remotes, and access devices must be returned.
This may include:
- Apartment keys
- Building keys
- Mailbox keys
- Garage remotes
- Entry cards
- Storage keys
Missing keys can create additional costs, especially if locks or access systems need to be changed.
Deposit return
The security deposit is usually returned after move-out, once the landlord checks the condition of the property and any utility or damage issues are settled.
The exact process depends on the rental agreement and the property arrangement.
If there is no damage and utilities are fixed or already settled, the deposit should generally be returned as soon as reasonably possible. If final utility bills are delayed, the landlord should communicate clearly and handle the settlement fairly.
Bank transfer is usually the best method for deposit return. Make sure the landlord has the correct bank account details.
Leave clearly and respectfully
A good move-out is about preparation. Clean properly, return the keys, document the final condition, and communicate clearly.
This helps close your stay in Zagreb in a professional and respectful way.