You've found a new place, packed your boxes, and now there's just one thing standing between you and your full deposit: the état des lieux de sortie (exit inspection). In Luxembourg, this process can feel stressful, especially if it's your first time or you've heard horror stories about deductions.
Here's the thing: most deposit disputes come down to cleaning. Not damage, not wear and tear - cleaning. So let's make sure you're prepared.
What Landlords Actually Check
Having spoken with property managers and agencies across Luxembourg, here's what consistently shows up on their inspection lists:
Kitchen (The Biggest Problem Area)
- Oven interior - This catches most people. Grease buildup is a guaranteed deduction
- Range hood and filters - Often forgotten, always checked
- Fridge/freezer - Clean, defrosted, and ideally unplugged for 24 hours
- Behind and under appliances - They will look
- Inside cabinets - Crumbs, stains, shelf liners removed
Bathrooms
- Grout and tile joints - Mold spots are automatic deductions
- Limescale - On taps, showerheads, glass
- Toilet (everywhere) - Including behind the seat and around the base
- Ventilation grilles - Dust buildup shows neglect
Throughout the Home
- Windows - Inside, outside if accessible, and tracks/frames
- Light switches and door handles - Fingerprints and dirt show
- Radiators - Between fins and behind
- Built-in wardrobes - Inside, including top shelves
- Baseboards and corners - Dust collects here
How the État des Lieux Works
In Luxembourg, the process is straightforward but legally binding:
- Scheduled inspection - Usually with landlord or agency present
- Room-by-room walkthrough - Comparing current state to entry inventory
- Documentation - Photos and written notes of any issues
- Both parties sign - This document determines deductions
Important: You have the right to be present. Never let an inspection happen without you there.
What You Can (and Can't) Be Charged For
Fair Game for Deductions
- Cleaning not completed to entry condition
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Items missing that were in the entry inventory
- Smoke damage or odors if you weren't supposed to smoke
Not Your Problem
- Normal wear (faded paint, carpet wear in walkways)
- Aging appliances that still work
- Pre-existing issues noted in entry inventory
- General degradation from normal use
DIY vs. Professional Cleaning
Here's an honest assessment:
Do It Yourself If:
- You have time (expect 8-12 hours for a 2-bedroom)
- You're detail-oriented and thorough
- You have proper cleaning products
- The place isn't too large
Hire Professionals If:
- You're short on time
- There's significant buildup (oven, bathroom grout)
- You want a guarantee in case of disputes
- You value your sanity during a stressful move
What Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning Costs
In Luxembourg, expect to pay:
- Studio/1-bedroom: €150-250
- 2-bedroom: €200-350
- 3-bedroom house: €350-500
- Large property: €500+
Most professional services include a guarantee: if the landlord finds cleaning issues, they'll come back and fix them free of charge.
The Checklist You Actually Need
Print this. Use it. Thank us later.
Kitchen
- ☐ Oven inside and out (use oven cleaner)
- ☐ Stovetop and burner grates
- ☐ Range hood and filter
- ☐ Fridge and freezer (defrosted, cleaned, dried)
- ☐ Microwave inside and out
- ☐ Dishwasher (run empty with cleaner)
- ☐ All cabinet interiors
- ☐ Countertops, backsplash
- ☐ Sink and taps (limescale removed)
- ☐ Floor including corners
Bathroom
- ☐ Toilet (bowl, seat, base, behind)
- ☐ Shower/tub (grout, glass, fixtures)
- ☐ Sink and vanity
- ☐ Mirror
- ☐ Medicine cabinet interior
- ☐ Tiles and grout (no mold)
- ☐ Ventilation grille
- ☐ Floor and baseboards
Every Room
- ☐ Windows (glass, frames, tracks)
- ☐ Light fixtures and ceiling
- ☐ Walls (remove marks, fill small holes if allowed)
- ☐ Light switches and outlets
- ☐ Door handles and doors
- ☐ Radiators
- ☐ Baseboards
- ☐ Floor (appropriate for type)
- ☐ Closet interiors
Don't Forget
- ☐ Garage/parking spot
- ☐ Storage room/cave
- ☐ Balcony/terrace
- ☐ Entry hallway
Pro Tips From Property Managers
We asked. They answered.
- Book early - Professional cleaners are busy at month-end. Book 2 weeks ahead.
- Take photos - Before and after, with timestamps. This protects you.
- Check your entry inventory - Clean to match the condition documented when you moved in.
- Don't leave anything behind - Including hooks, curtain rods you installed, or items in the cave.
- Ask what they expect - Some landlords have specific requirements. Better to know in advance.
If There's a Dispute
If you disagree with deductions:
- Request itemized list of deductions with costs
- Compare to entry inventory photos
- Respond in writing within 30 days
- If unresolved, contact the Service National du Médiateur de la Consommation
Having photos and documentation from your cleaning makes disputes much easier to resolve in your favor.
The Bottom Line
Most deposit deductions are preventable. A thorough clean - whether DIY or professional - almost always costs less than the deductions you'd face. Plus, it's the right thing to do for the next tenant.
Start early, be thorough, document everything. Your deposit will thank you.
