Move-Out Checklist
Everything you need to do before returning your keys — from giving proper notice to cleaning standards and your security deposit timeline.
Your notice period is defined in your lease. Month-to-month typically requires 30 days. Fixed-term leases have different rules. Confirm before submitting notice.
California law entitles you to a pre-move-out inspection. Request it from PME at least 2 weeks before your move-out date — it’s your chance to fix issues before the final inspection.
PME must return your security deposit — or an itemized list of deductions — within 21 days of your move-out date per California Civil Code 1950.5.
California requires written notice — typically 30 days for month-to-month, or per your lease terms for fixed-term leases. Confirm your notice requirement with PME before submitting.
Contact PME to schedule your move-out inspection. Under California law, you are entitled to a pre-move-out inspection — request it at least 2 weeks before your move-out date.
Confirm with PME exactly when, where, and how keys should be returned. All keys, fobs, garage remotes, and mailbox keys must be returned.
Update your address with USPS, your bank, employer, subscriptions, and all relevant parties before moving out.
Oven, stovetop, microwave, dishwasher, and refrigerator must be cleaned inside and out to the condition they were in at move-in.
Wipe down interior and exterior of all kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers.
Scrub toilets, tubs, showers, sinks, tiles, and grout. Remove all soap scum, mildew, and mineral deposits.
All floors must be swept/vacuumed and hard surfaces mopped. Carpet must be professionally cleaned if required by your lease.
Wipe down window glass, frames, sills, and tracks. Remove any residue, stickers, or film.
Wipe down fixtures and fan blades. Replace any burned-out bulbs that are tenant responsibility.
Every item of personal property must be removed — including items in garage, storage, and yard. Items left behind may incur disposal fees.
Sweep garage floor, remove all items, and leave in clean condition.
Small nail holes from picture hanging are typically acceptable. Larger holes, anchors, and wall damage must be patched and painted to match.
If walls were painted without permission or have significant marks, you may be responsible for repainting. Confirm with PME during your pre-move-out inspection.
Replace broken blinds, fix broken doors/drawers, repair damage caused by negligence. Normal wear and tear is PME’s responsibility; damage is yours.
Remove any shelving, hooks, curtain rods, or fixtures you installed. Restore walls to original condition unless PME approved leaving them.
California law gives tenants the right to a pre-move-out inspection 2 weeks before move-out. Use this opportunity to address any issues before your final inspection.
Return every key, garage door opener, mailbox key, and fob to PME by your agreed move-out date. Missing items may result in re-keying fees.
Keep utilities in your name and active until your actual move-out date — not your notice date. Turning off utilities early may create problems for your final inspection.
California law requires PME to mail your security deposit itemization within 21 days. Ensure PME has your accurate forwarding address.
Take your own photos of the property after cleaning and before returning keys. This protects you if any disputes arise about move-out condition.
Contact us at (209) 465-5000 (Mon–Fri 9am–5pm) or send us a message. For questions about your specific lease terms or deposit, reference your lease in the tenant portal.
