Move-Out Masterclass: A Step-by-Step Guide for WA & ID Landlords
Is Your Tenant Moving Out? Don’t Wing It.
As a landlord in Washington or Idaho, the move-out process isn’t just about getting your keys back—it’s your last chance to protect your property, stay legal, and set up your next move (or next tenant) for success.
At Easy Landlord Exit, we’ve seen dozens of turnovers go sideways—landlords returning deposits late, lost photos, angry calls. So we built this Move-Out Masterclass to help you avoid all of it.
Use this as your go-to guide for every tenant transition.
✅ Legal timelines
✅ Inspection tips
✅ Deposit rules (WA/ID specific)
✅ Downloadable move-out checklist
1. Confirm the Move-Out Date in Writing
Before anything else, lock in the official move-out date—in writing.
In Washington, tenants must give 20 days’ notice before the end of the month.
In Idaho, it’s 30 days’ notice, unless your lease says otherwise.
Even if they’re vacating voluntarily, get confirmation via email or text so it’s timestamped.
📩 Pro Tip: Keep this message saved—it may be crucial for final rent disputes or notice period enforcement.
2. Send a Move-Out Instructions Sheet
Want fewer calls and complaints after move-out? Send tenants a checklist up front.
Your move-out instruction sheet should include:
Cleaning requirements (appliances, floors, walls)
Patch/paint expectations
What happens to left-behind items
When/how to return keys and garage remotes
Utility shut-off info
You can grab a free printable version inside our Landlord Exit Toolkit (WA/ID Edition)
3. Offer a Pre-Move Walkthrough
Not required—but a game changer.
Offer a pre-move inspection 5–7 days before move-out. Walk through with your tenant and point out any issues that might be deducted from the deposit.
Prevents surprises
Builds trust
Saves time during turnover
Document everything you talk about via follow-up email.
4. Do a Final Walkthrough with Photos
Once keys are returned, it’s go time. Bring:
Your original move-in condition report
A camera or phone for time-stamped photos
A move-out checklist (we’ve got one for you below)
Go room by room. Don’t skip closets, windows, garages, or behind appliances.
5. Handle Abandoned Items Legally
If a tenant leaves stuff behind, don’t toss it immediately.
In Washington, you must store the items and notify the tenant. You can dispose or sell after 45 days if unclaimed.
In Idaho, there’s no fixed law, but giving reasonable notice is still smart.
6. Process the Security Deposit Properly
This is where many landlords trip up.
🧾 Legal Deadlines:
Washington: Return the deposit or send an itemized list within 21 days
Idaho: Return it within 21–30 days, depending on your lease
💡 Rules to Know:
You must provide receipts or invoices for any deductions
You can’t deduct for normal wear and tear
In WA, if you never did a move-in condition report, you lose the right to deduct anything
7. Prep the Unit for What’s Next
Now that it’s empty:
Deep clean (or hire it out)
Patch and repaint
Change locks
Take fresh photos
Re-list it or start your exit plan
Want to sell without repairs, clean-out, or agent fees? That’s what we do. Here’s how it works →
✅ Free Download: Landlord Move-Out Checklist
Need a printable checklist to walk the unit with?
We’ve created a 2-page Move-Out Checklist for Washington and Idaho landlords. It’s part of our Landlord Exit Toolkit — designed to help you turn tenant exits into smoother transitions.
📋 Includes:
Walkthrough tasks
Legal timelines
Deposit tips
Reset preparations
The Easy Landlord Exit Way
We believe landlords deserve options—not just stress, lawsuits, or repair lists. Whether you’re turning over the unit or ready to exit entirely, we help you:
Get cash offers
Use creative financing
Sell with tenants in place
Avoid big repair bills
👋 Thinking about your next move? Let’s talk