Can Apartments Charge You for Cleaning?
Moving is already stressful enough — dealing with boxes, organizing your new place, and completing a never-ending checklist. But the last thing you need is a surprise cleaning fee deducted from your security deposit. Many renters wonder, “Can apartments charge me for cleaning?” At Clean Town and Country, a trusted cleaning service in Town and Country, we believe in transparency when it comes to your rights as a tenant and the fees landlords can charge for cleaning services.
What Can Landlords Charge You For?
When you’re moving out of a rental, it’s important to know what landlords can charge you for cleaning. In Missouri, landlords can charge you if you leave the property dirty beyond normal wear and tear, but they cannot charge you for things that are considered typical wear.
For example:
- What can landlords charge you for?
- Excessively soiled carpets
- Trash piles left behind
- Pet damage or smells
- Grease-caked kitchens
- Mold in bathrooms
- What they can’t charge for:
- Minor scuffs on walls
- Faded paint
- Normal wear on flooring
- Small nail holes in the wall
If your landlord tries to charge for something that doesn’t fit the above categories, they must provide proof — which is why keeping your cleaning receipts is so important. Hiring a professional cleaning service, like Clean Town and Country, for your move-out cleaning will ensure that you meet your landlord’s expectations.
How to Avoid Unnecessary Cleaning Charges
To protect your security deposit from unfair cleaning charges, consider these steps:
- Take Before and After Photos: Document the condition of the apartment before moving in and after cleaning. Having clear evidence can help avoid misunderstandings.
- Hire a Professional Cleaning Service: Clean Town and Country offers thorough move-out cleaning in Clayton, Creve Coeur, Olivette, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re in Town and Country or Ladue, hiring a trusted team to handle the cleaning gives you peace of mind.
- Save Your Receipts: If you’ve hired a cleaning service, make sure you keep your receipts. This will show that you’ve left the property in pristine condition. Book our move-out cleaning service today!
- Request an Inspection: It’s always a good idea to schedule a walkthrough with your landlord to discuss cleaning expectations before you move out. This can prevent any surprises when it’s time for them to return your deposit.
Outbound Link for Reference
It’s always good to check with local resources to understand the tenant rights in Missouri regarding security deposits. For further details, you can visit the Missouri Attorney General’s website.
The Real Costs of Cleaning Fees: What You’re Paying For
The typical move-out cleaning service costs between $150–$600, depending on the condition of your property. Rates can vary based on the size of the home and how much cleaning is required. At Clean Town and Country, we offer affordable cleaning rates while ensuring your home is ready for inspection. Our professional team ensures that every corner of your home is sparkling clean — from scrubbing baseboards to removing grease from the kitchen.
You should not be charged more than what a reputable company would charge in your area. If a landlord tries to charge you an unreasonable cleaning fee, it’s worth challenging the charges.
Missouri-Specific Rules for Cleaning Fees
If you’re in Town and Country, Ladue, or Clayton, Missouri, know that landlords can only charge for cleaning to restore the property to its original condition, minus normal wear and tear. They must itemize all deductions and return your deposit within 30 days. If they don’t, you can dispute the charges and even take legal action.
Protect Your Security Deposit Like a Pro
If you’ve hired a professional cleaning service from Clean Town and Country, you’ve already gone a long way toward protecting your deposit. However, there are a few more things you can do:
- Document Everything: Take photos of your apartment before and after cleaning.
- Save Receipts: Keep all cleaning receipts for proof.
- Request a Pre-Move-Out Inspection: This will ensure you meet all expectations.
- Dispute Unfair Charges: If you think the charges are unfair, you have the right to dispute them.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights and Clean Smart
Yes, landlords can charge you for cleaning, but only if it’s reasonable. By keeping your home clean and documenting everything, you can protect yourself from unfair charges. At Clean Town and Country, we offer a full range of cleaning services to make your move-out stress-free. Whether you’re in Creve Coeur or Clayton, trust our expert team to handle your cleaning needs. Book your move-out cleaning service now and take the first step toward protecting your deposit.
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