You cleaned. Still got charged.
Yes, within limits. In California, a cleaning charge can only get the place back to how clean it was when you moved in, not prep it for the next renter. In Nevada and Rhode Island, the cost has to be reasonable. So a flat fee on a place you already cleaned is worth questioning.
What can a landlord charge for cleaning?
- California: only the cleaning needed to get the place as clean as it was when you moved in. No professional cleaning unless it's reasonably needed for that, not counting normal wear. (Civ. Code §1950.5(b)(3), (e)(2)(C))
- Nevada: the reasonable cost of cleaning, plus unpaid rent and damage you caused beyond normal wear. (NRS 118A.242(4))
- Rhode Island: reasonable cleaning, along with unpaid rent, trash removal and damage beyond ordinary wear and tear. (§ 34-18-19(b))
Can they charge a flat cleaning fee?
- California: no part of a security deposit can be nonrefundable, whatever the lease says. (Civ. Code §1950.5(n))
- Nevada: a lease can include a nonrefundable cleaning charge, but only a reasonable amount. (NRS 118A.242(8))
Either way, ask what it paid for. Some states require proof. See what a real itemized list includes.
Do they have to tell me first?
In Montana, yes. They can't take cleaning out of your deposit until they've told you in writing what cleaning you didn't do. They also can't charge for routine upkeep they noted when you moved in, unless your carelessness made it necessary. (§ 70-25-201(3))
What should I do about a cleaning charge?
Ask in writing for the invoice: what was cleaned and who did it. Send your move-out photos and any cleaning receipt you have. Then check your deadline. A missed deadline can matter more than the cleaning bill.
Charged for the carpet? See carpet cleaning and new carpet.
Last updated . Checked against each state's official law. General information, not legal advice.