Free checklist
Eviction Cleanout Checklist
What to do before, during, and after a unit clears, so the turnover moves as fast as possible. Free to use, no form to fill out first.
An eviction cleanout checklist covers four stages: confirming the lockout date and lining up a crew beforehand, verifying the lockout is complete before entry, getting the full removal done with documentation, and re-listing the unit as soon as it's turned.
Before the lockout date
- Confirm the court date or sheriff's lockout date in writing, and don't schedule a cleanout crew before it's confirmed.
- Photograph the unit's condition if you can access common areas, before anything is moved.
- Line up a cleanout crew ahead of time so there's no gap between the lockout and getting the unit emptied. Same-week scheduling only works if you've already made the call.
- Get a flat quote based on a description of the unit rather than waiting for an in-person walkthrough, that's what slows most landlords down.
The day of the lockout
- Confirm with the sheriff's office or your attorney that the lockout is complete before anyone enters the unit.
- Do a quick walkthrough yourself first if possible, so you know roughly what's inside before the crew arrives.
- Have the cleanout crew's contact info and the confirmed quote on hand in case the volume looks different in person than it did on paper.
Getting the unit cleared
- A full cleanout covers furniture, trash, appliances, and anything left in closets, cabinets, and storage areas.
- Ask for photos of the finished unit so you have proof it's ready without driving out yourself.
- Get one invoice for the job, not a list of add-on charges that show up after the crew leaves.
After the cleanout
- Walk the unit or review the photos before scheduling any repairs or repainting.
- Keep the invoice and photos on file, they're useful if the situation ever needs documentation later.
- Get the unit back on the market as soon as it's turned, every day it sits empty after cleanout is still lost rent.
This is an operational checklist, not legal advice. Court procedures and timelines vary by county, confirm the specifics of your case with your attorney or the court handling it.
Ready for the cleanout step?
Tell us the address, roughly what's left behind, and how soon you need it emptied.