When preparing for the final inspection (état des lieux de sortie) before vacating your apartment or villa, restoring the property to its original state is essential, ensuring it is thoroughly clean and empty. This preparation will help ensure a smooth handover process, minimize discussions about damage, and save time. Here’s an organized, step-by-step checklist to guide you through the process, particularly relevant for renters in Geneva, Switzerland.
Key Points for a Successful Final Inspection
Scheduling the Inspection: The inspection must occur during business hours, at the latest, on the final day of your lease. If the lease ends on a weekend or public holiday, plan to conduct the inspection the following business day or Monday morning.
Ensure All Areas Are Vacated and Clean: The entire property, including basements and attics, must be empty. Leaving furniture behind is not permitted, as all floors must be inspected.
General Cleaning Checklist
General Cleaning
Clean cupboards, wardrobes, and shelves inside and out.
Thoroughly vacuum and dust all rooms, ensuring no cobwebs or dust remain.
Clean windows, frames, and ledges; grease window hinges if needed.
Shampoo carpets and clean any other flooring. Polish or wax wooden floors, if applicable.
Dust and clean radiators (front and back).
Clean fireplaces and chimneys if applicable, and provide a chimney cleaning receipt during the inspection.
Walls and Fixtures
Fill any holes in the walls (e.g., from picture hooks).
Remove all stickers, chewing gums, and personal installations.
Clean all switches and sockets; replace any that are damaged.
Kitchen Cleaning: A Spotless Space
A clean kitchen is often a top priority during final inspections. Make sure yours is up to standard by tackling these essential tasks:
Degrease and clean the ventilation hood, replacing filters if needed.
Clean the oven thoroughly, including trays, racks, and the glass door.
Defrost and clean refrigerators and freezers. Ensure they are empty, turned off, and open doors to prevent odors.
Clean the dishwasher, de-lime any joints, and replace any damaged accessories.
Clean sinks, faucets, and drains, making sure to de-lime taps and remove any residue from water usage.
Bathroom Cleaning
Thoroughly clean and de-lime bathtubs, showers, sinks, and faucets.
Replace any worn seals or damaged showerheads.
De-lime and clean toilets and remove any deodorizing products.
Balconies and Terraces
Remove weed between the tiles and clean any exterior lights or fixtures.
Repair or replace any broken or damaged items that were part of the lease, especially outdoor furniture or equipment.
Repair and Restoration Guidelines
Replace any damaged windows, blinds, or curtains.
Repair or replace damaged electrical installations, such as switches and light fixtures.
Ensure any non-authorized modifications are removed and the property is returned to its original condition.
Key Handover Process
All keys (including duplicates) must be returned to the property manager during inspection. Missing keys, especially security-protected ones, will require a lock change at the tenant’s expense.
Conclusion: A Stress-Free Handover
Following the above steps ensures your property is clean, restored, and ready for inspection. A well-prepared property inspection will not only save time but also prevent additional costs for cleaning or repairs. Whether you are a tenant moving out of an apartment in Geneva or leaving a villa, this guide ensures a smooth, stress-free handover and sets a positive tone for you and your landlord.
To help you navigate this process efficiently, we’ve created a detailed checklist tailored to Geneva’s and other Cantons’ rental markets in Switzerland. Download it here and ensure a seamless move-out experience.
