Your guide to checking out

Feb 1, 2026 | Accommodation

We’ve put together a handy guide to checking out before you leave your student accommodation and head off for the summer holidays. Most importantly your house must be left in the same condition as when you moved in (less fair wear and tear).

End of tenancy checklist

Download Printable Checklist

Quick reference checkout guide with pictures

Give Notice 
  • Provide a minimum of two months’ written notice if you wish to end your tenancy (where applicable under your agreement)
  • Ensure your notice clearly states the intended tenancy end date, to end at the end of a month
  • Notice must be given in writing (email is acceptable unless your agreement states otherwise)
  • You remain responsible for rent and all tenancy obligations until the notice period expires
  • Do not assume your tenancy ends automatically — confirm your official end date in writing
Before You Leave
  • Confirm your exact tenancy end date and time
  • Ensure the property is fully vacated by this deadline
  • Leave your keys on your room desk
  • Unlock or latch your door
  • Failure to vacate on time or return keys may result in charges
  • Use the End of Tenancy Questionnaire to report known maintenance issues
Rent, Bills & Financial Responsibilities
  • Ensure all rent is fully paid up to your tenancy end date
  • Clear any outstanding balances
  • Check whether you have exceeded any agreed utility spend cap
  • Cancel or transfer any subscriptions
  • Provide companies with your forwarding address
  • Unpaid rent and bill overspends are among the most common reasons for deposit deductions
Remove All Belongings
  • Empty all bedrooms completely, including wardrobes, drawers, desks and under beds
  • Clear kitchen cupboards, fridge and freezer compartments
  • Remove all food items
  • Check behind furniture and inside storage areas
  • Dispose of rubbish properly
  • Charges will apply for removal of any items left behind

Cleaning Checklist (Most Important)

Bedrooms & Living Areas
  • Vacuum carpets thoroughly, including under beds and furniture
  • Dust and wipe skirting boards
  • Clean inside drawers and wardrobes
  • Wipe desks, tables and shelving
  • Clean internal windows and window sills
  • Remove surface marks where possible
  • Wash and leave mattress protectors in place (these are not bed sheets)

Kitchen

  • Clean oven thoroughly, including trays and racks
  • Clean hob and extractor fan
  • Clean microwave inside and out
  • Empty, clean and defrost fridge and freezer
  • Wipe inside all cupboards and drawers
  • Clean sink, taps and worktops
Bathroom
  • Remove mould from tiles, grout and sealant
  • Clean shower screen or curtain
  • Clean toilet fully, including behind and around the base
  • Clean basin, taps and mirrors
  • Mop floors
Rubbish & Bins
  • Empty all bins
  • Put bins out correctly for collection
  • Do not leave rubbish bags inside or outside the property
  • Leftover waste? Book a free visit to the Gloucester Recycling Centre
Garden (if applicable)
  • Cut grass where necessary
  • Remove weeds
  • Clear all green waste
  • Leave outdoor areas tidy

Common Reasons for Deposit Deductions

  • Incomplete cleaning (especially kitchens, bathrooms and less obvious places such as skirting boards, under beds, sofa covers, etc.)
  • Staining or taking mattress protectors with you – they are often provided by the landlord at the start
  • Unpaid rent
  • Exceeding the bills cap
  • Leaving rubbish or belongings behind
  • Not returning all keys
  • Damaged furniture, carpets, or fixtures
  • Breaching any clause in the tenancy agreement

Tip: Ask yourself — would you be happy to move into the house in its current condition?

Deposit Returns

  • End-of-tenancy inspections will be conducted after you move out.
  • Deposits will be returned minus any deductions (if applicable).
  • The landlord is responsible for deposit deductions and refunds—not Gloucester Student Houses.
  • Don’t forget to complete the End of Tenancy Questionnaire with your bank details for the deposit return

We hope you’ve enjoyed living in our one of our houses.  
If you have any questions about your tenancy or deposit, feel free to contact us:

📞 07586 702450
📧 enquiries@glsh.co.uk

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Got a question for us?

With over 10 years experience of housing students just like you in the private rental sector, we’ve seen it all. Do you need some help or advice? Drop us a line and we’ll be happy to help. Make the most of your student home. Join the family!