The Essential Move‑Out Walk‑Through Guide for Kenyan Tenants and Landlords

By Makao Match Team

Why a Walk Through Matters

Leaving a rental can feel like a big step. For tenants, it is the last chance to prove they kept the place in good shape and to get their full deposit back. For landlords, a thorough walk through protects the property and clarifies any deductions. Doing it together, with a clear checklist, saves arguments and speeds up the handover.

Preparing the Checklist Ahead of Time

Both parties should agree on a written checklist at least a week before the move‑out date. Keep a copy on your phone or print it out. Here are the main items to include:

• General cleanliness, floors swept and mopped, walls dusted, windows wiped.
• Walls and paint, check for holes, nail marks, or paint peeling.
• Flooring, look for scratches on tiles, scuffs on parquet, or stains on carpets.
• Plumbing, test taps, flush toilets, and inspect for leaks under sinks.
• Electrical, ensure all switches, sockets and light fixtures work.
• Appliances, if the lease includes a fridge, stove or washing machine, verify they operate and are clean.
• Furniture, if the unit is furnished, confirm each piece is present and undamaged.
• Outdoor areas, garden, balcony or patio should be tidy and any provided furniture intact.

Step‑by‑Step Walk Through Process

1. Schedule a mutually convenient time. Both tenant and landlord (or their agent) should be present. If one party cannot attend, arrange for a trusted representative.
2. Bring documentation. Tenants should have the original inventory report and any photos taken at move‑in. Landlords should have the lease agreement and any repair receipts.
3. Inspect room by room. Start at the front door and move clockwise. Use the checklist to mark each item as "good", "needs cleaning" or "damage".
4. Take photos or videos. Capture the condition of any disputed items. Timestamped images are useful if a dispute later arises.
5. Discuss findings immediately. Agree on any minor cleaning tasks the tenant can do before leaving. For larger repairs, decide who will arrange them and who will pay.
6. Agree on the deposit amount to return. Write the final figure on the checklist and have both parties sign.

Typical Costs Tenants Should Expect

Most small issues are covered by a reasonable cleaning fee. In Nairobi, professional end‑of‑lease cleaning costs about KES 5,000 to 8,000 for a two‑bedroom flat. Minor paint touch‑ups may run KES 2,000 to 4,000 per wall. If a tenant leaves a broken kitchen tap, a plumber usually charges KES 1,500 for parts and labour.

Landlords often set a standard deduction schedule in the lease. For example:

• Dirty carpets, KES 3,000 to 6,000.
• Unfilled nail holes, KES 500 per hole.
• Broken appliance, cost of repair or replacement, typically KES 4,000 to 12,000.

Knowing these figures helps tenants budget for the final week and prevents surprise deductions.

Resolving Disagreements Smoothly

If the landlord and tenant cannot agree on a deduction, try these steps:

• Refer to the original inventory. Photos taken at move‑in are the strongest evidence.
• Seek a neutral third party. Many estate agents offer mediation for a small fee.
• Use the tenancy law. In Kenya, a landlord must provide a written statement of deductions within 30 days of the handover. If they fail to do so, they forfeit the right to keep any part of the deposit.

Keeping the conversation calm and focused on facts usually leads to a fair outcome.

Final Tips for a Stress‑Free Exit

Plan your move‑out day early. Pack belongings the night before, leave a spare key for the landlord, and double‑check that all utilities are transferred or cancelled. A clean, well‑documented handover not only protects your money but also leaves a good impression, useful if you ever need a reference for a new rental.

Ready to find your next home or list a property with confidence? Try Makao Match for a smooth renting experience.