Move-out cleaning in 2026 - prices and complete checklist

In short

• Move-out cleaning usually costs 85-120 kr per m².
• Many cleaning companies have a minimum price of 4,500-6,000 kr.
• A 50 m² home often costs 5,000-7,000 kr.
• A 70 m² home typically costs 6,000-9,000 kr.
• A 100 m² home often costs 8,500-12,000 kr.
• Windows, kitchen, bathroom, cupboards and drawers should normally be included.
• Balcony, storage room, garage, wall washing and very dirty appliances may cost extra.
• Preferably choose a fixed price with a written satisfaction guarantee.
• The cleaning company must be approved in the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority's cleaning register (Arbeidstilsynets renholdsregister).
• Take photos and carry out an inspection before you hand over the keys.

What does move-out cleaning cost by home size?

Small homes often get a higher price per square metre because the company has to cover transport, equipment and administration regardless of the size of the home.

Large homes may get a lower price per square metre, but the total price is naturally higher.

What is move-out cleaning?

Move-out cleaning, also called end-of-tenancy cleaning, is a far more thorough clean than the usual weekly cleaning.

The home must be ready for a new owner or tenant. This means that areas that are not usually cleaned every week must be cleaned too.

This includes, among other things:

Regular cleaning focuses on visible surfaces. Move-out cleaning covers the entire empty home.

What does professional move-out cleaning include?

This varies between companies, but a complete move-out cleaning should normally cover the following:

All rooms

• Vacuuming floors
• Thorough washing of floors
• Cleaning skirting boards
• Dry mopping walls and ceilings
• Removing visible marks where the surface allows it
• Cleaning doors and frames
• Cleaning door handles
• Washing window sills
• Washing sockets and switches
• Cleaning radiators and panel heaters
• Dusting fixed cupboards and shelves
• Cleaning inside cupboards and drawers
• Removing cobwebs
• Cleaning vents
• Window cleaning

Kitchen

• Washing the outside of kitchen cupboards
• Washing inside cupboards and drawers
• Cleaning the worktop
• Washing the kitchen sink and mixer tap
• Cleaning the tiles or splashback above the worktop
• Washing the outside of the cooker hood
• Cleaning the filter when agreed
• Washing the hob
• Cleaning the oven
• Cleaning behind and under appliances
• Washing the fridge and freezer
• Cleaning the dishwasher
• Washing floors and skirting boards

Bathroom and toilet

• Washing and disinfecting the toilet
• Cleaning the washbasin
• Washing mixer taps
• Cleaning the shower or bathtub
• Removing normal limescale
• Washing shower walls
• Cleaning tiles
• Washing mirrors
• Washing inside cupboards and drawers
• Clearing and cleaning drains
• Cleaning the vent
• Washing the outside of the washing machine and tumble dryer
• Washing floors and skirting boards

Windows

• Cleaning windows on the inside
• Cleaning windows on the outside where they are accessible
• Washing between panes that can be opened
• Cleaning window sills
• Washing window handles

Check the quote carefully. Some companies charge extra for the oven, fridge, windows or other time-consuming tasks.

What is usually not included?

The following tasks may cost extra:

State the condition of the home when you ask for a quote. If the company expects a normally maintained home, heavy soiling can lead to surcharges.

What affects the price of move-out cleaning?

Home size

Most companies use the number of square metres as a starting point. A larger area requires more working hours.

Number of bathrooms

Bathrooms often take longer than bedrooms and living rooms. Limescale, soap residue, drains and shower walls require thorough work.

A home with two or three bathrooms can therefore cost more than a home of the same size with one bathroom.

Number of windows

Large window areas, glazing bars and multi-pane windows can increase the price. The same applies to windows that are hard to reach.

Condition of the kitchen

Grease on cupboards, the cooker hood and the oven can be time-consuming to remove. If the appliances have not been cleaned regularly, the company may charge a surcharge.

Furniture and belongings

Move-out cleaning is normally carried out in an empty home. If furniture, boxes or waste are left behind, the cleaners spend more time.

Smoking and pets

Nicotine, odours, hair and stains may require extra cleaning. Standard move-out cleaning does not necessarily remove all odours from smoke or animals either.

Timing

Weekends, public holidays and bookings at short notice can cost more. The end of the month is often busy because many tenancies end at the same time.

Geographic location

Price levels vary between different parts of the country. Parking, road tolls and travel distance can also affect the total price.

Fixed price or hourly rate?

Fixed price

A fixed price is usually the safest choice for move-out cleaning.

Advantages:

The fixed price only applies to the agreed scope of work. The company may charge extra if the home is larger or considerably dirtier than stated.

Hourly rate

Cleaners often charge between 400 and 700 kr per hour per person. An hourly rate can be suitable for smaller jobs or if you only need help with part of the cleaning.

The disadvantage is that it can be hard to know how long the work will take.

Ask for a price estimate and an upper price limit if the work is invoiced by the hour.

How long does move-out cleaning take?

Total working time means the sum of the hours of all the cleaners.

If three people clean for six hours, this equals 18 working hours.

Professional cleaners often work in teams so that the cleaning can be completed in one day.

What must be ready before the cleaning company arrives?

• The home must be emptied of furniture and boxes.
• Rubbish must be removed.
• The electricity must be on.
• Hot and cold water must be available.
• The fridge and freezer must be emptied.
• The freezer should be defrosted.
• Appliances that are to be cleaned behind must be movable.
• The company must have access to all rooms.
• Keys and access details must be agreed.
• Windows must be accessible.
• Any alarm must be switched off.
• Parking options should be clarified.
• Faults, damage and particularly dirty areas should be reported in advance.

If the home is not ready, the company may charge extra or cancel the job.

Complete move-out cleaning checklist

Before you start

• Empty the entire home.
• Remove all rubbish.
• Take down curtains and curtain rods if they are not staying with the home.
• Remove nails, screws and hooks if this has been agreed.
• Vacuum up heavy dust and dirt.
• Get out cleaning products and equipment.
• Ensure good ventilation.
• Start with the rooms furthest from the exit.
• Work from top to bottom.
• Wash the floors last.

Equipment you may need

• Vacuum cleaner
• Floor mop
• Buckets
• Microfibre cloths
• Sponges
• Squeegee
• Window cloth
• Glass cleaner
• All-purpose cleaner
• Kitchen cleaner
• Degreaser
• Bathroom cleaner
• Limescale remover
• Toilet cleaner
• Washing-up liquid
• Rubber gloves
• Rubbish bags
• Paper towels
• Small brush
• Old toothbrush
• Ladder or stepladder
• Oven scraper suitable for the surface

Always follow the instructions on the cleaning products. Never mix chlorine bleach with acidic products, ammonia or other cleaning products. This can produce toxic gas.

Checklist for all rooms

• Remove cobwebs.
• Dry mop the ceiling.
• Dry mop or wash walls as needed.
• Remove visible marks.
• Dust skirting boards.
• Wash doors on both sides.
• Wash door frames.
• Clean door handles.
• Wipe sockets and switches.
• Clean fixed shelves.
• Wash inside cupboards and drawers.
• Wash the tops of cupboards.
• Clean panel heaters and radiators.
• Vacuum behind and under heaters.
• Clean vents.
• Wash window sills.
• Clean the windows.
• Clean blinds if this has been agreed.
• Vacuum the floor.
• Wash the floor.
• Check corners and the area behind the door.

Do not use large amounts of water on parquet, laminate or other moisture-sensitive floors.

Kitchen checklist

Kitchen cupboards and drawers

• Empty all cupboards and drawers.
• Vacuum up crumbs.
• Wash the inside surfaces.
• Wash shelves.
• Clean hinges.
• Wash the fronts.
• Clean handles.
• Wash plinths.
• Clean the tops of wall cupboards.
• Remove grease from the areas near the cooker and cooker hood.

Worktop and sink

• Remove grease and stains from the worktop.
• Clean joints and edges.
• Wash the kitchen sink.
• Clean the strainer.
• Remove normal limescale.
• Polish the mixer tap.
• Clean around the tap.
• Wash the wall or splashback above the worktop.

Oven

• Take out the racks and trays.
• Leave them to soak.
• Clean the oven cavity.
• Wash the inside of the door.
• Clean the glass.
• Remove grease and burnt-on food residue.
• Wash the seals carefully.
• Clean knobs and handles.
• Wash the outside.
• Put the dry racks and trays back.

Only use products that are suitable for the oven. Strong agents can damage self-cleaning or catalytic surfaces.

Hob

• Remove loose food residue.
• Dissolve grease.
• Use a suitable scraper on a ceramic hob.
• Wash the edges.
• Clean the knobs and control panel.
• Wipe over with a clean cloth.

Cooker hood

• Take out the filter.
• Wash the filter if it can be cleaned.
• Replace disposable filters if this has been agreed.
• Remove grease from the inside.
• Wash the outside.
• Clean the buttons.
• Dry all the parts before reassembling them.

Fridge and freezer

• Empty the fridge and freezer.
• Disconnect the power.
• Defrost the freezer well in advance.
• Remove drawers and shelves.
• Wash all loose parts.
• Wash the inside surfaces.
• Clean the seals.
• Wash the outside.
• Vacuum or wash behind and underneath.
• Leave the doors open after washing.

Place towels around the freezer during defrosting to avoid water damage.

Dishwasher

• Empty the filter.
• Clean the filter and strainer.
• Wash the spray arms.
• Clean the rubber seals.
• Wash the detergent dispenser.
• Wipe the inside of the door.
• Wash the outside.
• Clean underneath and at the sides if the machine can be pulled out.

Bathroom and toilet checklist

• Clean the ceiling and vent.
• Wash walls and tiles.
• Clean grout.
• Remove soap residue.
• Remove normal limescale.
• Wash shower walls.
• Clean the shower head and mixer tap.
• Wash the bathtub.
• Clean under the bathtub if it is accessible.
• Wash the washbasin.
• Clean the drain and plug.
• Polish mixer taps.
• Wash mirrors.
• Wash the mirror cabinet inside and out.
• Empty and clean drawers and cupboards.
• Wash the inside of the toilet.
• Clean the toilet seat on both sides.
• Wash the outside of the toilet.
• Clean behind and around the toilet.
• Wash the toilet roll holder and other fixed fittings.
• Clear the floor drain.
• Clean the outside of the washing machine.
• Clean the detergent drawer and filter if this has been agreed.
• Wash the outside of the tumble dryer.
• Empty the lint filter.
• Wash the floor.
• Check for odours from the drain.

Avoid tools and chemicals that can damage tiles, grout, the waterproof membrane or sanitary fittings.

Living room checklist

• Dry mop the ceiling and walls.
• Remove dust from skirting boards.
• Wash doors and frames.
• Clean windows.
• Wash window sills.
• Clean radiators and panel heaters.
• Wipe sockets and switches.
• Wash fixed cupboards and shelves.
• Clean the outside of the fireplace.
• Remove ash if this has been agreed and can be done safely.
• Vacuum the floor.
• Wash the floor.
• Check the area where the sofa and other large furniture stood.

Bedroom checklist

• Dry mop the ceiling and walls.
• Wash doors and frames.
• Clean windows.
• Wash window sills.
• Wash inside wardrobes.
• Clean shelves and drawers.
• Wash the tops of cupboards.
• Wipe sockets and switches.
• Clean the radiator or panel heater.
• Vacuum the floor.
• Wash the floor.
• Check the area under the bed and behind cupboards.

Entrance and hallway checklist

• Wash the inside of the front door.
• Clean the door frame and threshold.
• Wash the handle and lock carefully.
• Clean wardrobes.
• Wash shoe racks.
• Clean the outside of the fuse box.
• Wipe the intercom.
• Wash mirrors.
• Vacuum corners.
• Wash the floor.
• Clean under fixed fittings.

Laundry room checklist

• Wash walls and floor.
• Clear the drain.
• Clean the utility sink.
• Polish the mixer tap.
• Wash cupboards and shelves.
• Clean the outside of the washing machine.
• Wash the detergent drawer.
• Clean the filter if this can be done safely.
• Empty the lint filter in the tumble dryer.
• Clean behind and under the machines.
• Clean the vent.
• Check that the water taps are closed as agreed.

Window checklist

• Remove dust and dirt from the sills.
• Wash the window frames.
• Clean the glass on the inside.
• Clean the glass on the outside when it can be done safely.
• Wash between the panes if the window can be opened.
• Clean handles.
• Wipe water off the sills.
• Check the glass in daylight.
• Remove tape marks if it can be done without damage.

Do not lean out of windows or use unstable equipment. Windows at height should be left to a company with the right safety equipment.

Balcony, storage room and garage checklist

These areas are not always included in the move-out cleaning. If they are to be cleaned, it should be stated in the agreement.

• Empty the area.
• Remove rubbish.
• Sweep the floor.
• Remove cobwebs.
• Wipe shelves.
• Wash doors and handles.
• Clean railings if this has been agreed.
• Wash the floor where the surface allows it.
• Remove loose stains.
• Check that nothing has been left behind.

How to inspect the cleaning

Carry out the inspection while you still have access to the home.

Use good lighting and look especially at:

Take photos and video once the home has been cleaned.

Ideally, carry out a joint handover inspection with the landlord or buyer before the keys are handed over.

What are the requirements when moving out of a rented home?

Unless otherwise agreed, section 10-2 of the Tenancy Act (husleieloven) states that the home and its fittings must be tidied, cleaned and in the same condition as when it was taken over, apart from normal wear and tear and matters the landlord is responsible for.

Among other things, this means that:

If the home has not been properly cleaned, the landlord can claim the necessary costs of a new cleaning.

The Rent Disputes Tribunal (Husleietvistutvalget) states that the tenant normally has no right to come back and clean after the keys have been handed over, unless the landlord allows it.

So check the cleaning before handing over the keys.

What applies when selling a home?

When selling, the home should be handed over in the condition set out in the purchase contract and the handover agreement.

The home is usually expected to be:

Clarify any exceptions in writing. If furniture, firewood, paint or anything else is to be left behind, the buyer should approve this in advance.

Use a handover protocol and note any disagreements.

What is a satisfaction guarantee?

A satisfaction guarantee usually means that the cleaning company comes back and fixes defects at no extra charge.

The guarantee may have conditions, for example:

"Satisfaction guarantee" is not a standardised term with identical conditions at every company. So read the terms before you book.

Also check whether the guarantee applies to you, the landlord and the buyer alike.

How to choose a reputable cleaning company

All businesses offering cleaning services in Norway must be approved by the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet).

It is illegal to buy cleaning services from a business that is not approved. This also applies to private individuals.

Check the company in the Labour Inspection Authority's cleaning register (Renholdsregisteret).

Also check:

Avoid cash payment without a receipt. Ask for a written quote and an invoice.

What should the agreement include?

The agreement should describe:

Send photos of the home if the company does not carry out a site visit. That makes it harder to claim afterwards that the condition came as a surprise.

What do you do if the cleaning is not approved?

• Document the defects with photos.
• Notify the cleaning company immediately.
• Describe exactly what is not good enough.
• Refer to the agreement and the checklist.
• Ask the company to come back by a specific deadline.
• Do not book a new company before the original provider has had a reasonable opportunity to fix the defects.
• Keep all written communication.
• Document any costs you are claiming.

If the handover takes place the same day, the cleaning company should be available for a quick fix.

Safe booking and payment

Payment should be tied to a clearly defined job. It should be easy to document what was agreed, what was done and whether the cleaning has been approved.

Fikso is built to make buying services safer. The customer secures the payment before the work starts, and the money is paid out in line with the agreed process. If there is a disagreement about the result, the payment can be held back while the documentation is reviewed.

Do the move-out cleaning yourself or hire a cleaning company?

Advantages of cleaning yourself

• You save money.
• You set the pace.
• You can fix small things straight away.
• You have full control over the cleaning.

Disadvantages of cleaning yourself

• It takes a long time.
• You have to buy equipment and cleaning products.
• The work comes on top of packing and moving.
• It is easy to overlook details.
• You have no external satisfaction guarantee.
• The landlord or buyer can demand a new cleaning if the result is not good enough.

Advantages of professional move-out cleaning

• You save time.
• The company has routines and equipment.
• Several cleaners can finish in one day.
• You can get a fixed price.
• Many offer a satisfaction guarantee.
• The company can fix it if something is overlooked.

Professional cleaning is particularly suitable when the home is large, the handover is approaching or you are moving far away.

Frequently asked questions

Conclusion: What should you budget for?

Move-out cleaning usually costs between 85 and 120 kr per square metre.

A realistic budget is:

Choose a company listed in the Labour Inspection Authority's cleaning register. Ask for a fixed price, a detailed checklist and a written satisfaction guarantee.

Inspect the home and take photos before you hand over the keys. After the keys have been handed over, you normally have no right to come back and redo the cleaning without permission.

Method and sources

The prices are indicative estimates based on public price lists and published prices from Norwegian cleaning businesses. The actual price depends on home size, condition, location and agreed extras.

Rules and price information have been checked against:

This article provides general information and does not replace a specific agreement or legal assessment.