Short answer: A smooth turnover runs in order: pre-move-out walkthrough, move-out inspection with photos, trash-out, repairs, paint, deep clean, final check, then re-list and move-in. In Michigan, the 30-day security deposit clock starts when the tenant moves out, so document the unit's condition on day one.
The turnover sequence at a glance
| Stage | When | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Notice received | When the tenant gives notice | Confirm the move-out date, ask for a forwarding address in writing, book the turnover crew and order any parts with long lead times. |
| 2. Pre-move-out walkthrough | About 1 to 2 weeks before move-out, with proper notice to the tenant | Spot repairs early, so the scope and quotes are ready on day one. |
| 3. Move-out inspection | Move-out day | Compare to the move-in checklist. Take dated photos and video of every room. Collect keys. Start the deposit clock. |
| 4. Trash-out | Right after move-out | Remove everything left behind, so trades and cleaners can work. |
| 5. Repairs | After trash-out | Drywall, doors, fixtures, flooring. Electrical, plumbing and HVAC go to licensed trades. |
| 6. Paint | After repairs | Touch-up or full repaint. Homes built before 1978 need lead-safe (EPA RRP) practices. |
| 7. Deep clean | After paint, last in line | Kitchen, baths, floors, windows, inside cabinets and appliances. |
| 8. Final check | Before listing photos | Smoke and CO detectors tested, locks rekeyed, every light and faucet working, photos taken. |
| 9. Re-list and move-in | When the unit is rent-ready | New move-in checklist with the incoming tenant. |
The timing column is a common planning pattern, not a legal rule. Your lease and Michigan law control notice and entry.
Why does order matter?
Cleaning before paint and repairs means cleaning twice. Painting before drywall patches are dry means painting twice. The order above puts the dirtiest work first and the cleaning last, so each step is done once.
What deadlines apply in Michigan?
- Security deposit: within 30 days after the tenant moves out, return the deposit or mail an itemized list of damages (with any balance). The tenant must give a forwarding address in writing within 4 days of moving out. See our Michigan security deposit guide.
- Detroit rentals: keep the City's Certificate of Compliance current. See our Detroit rental registration guide.
- Pre-1978 buildings: paint and repair work that disturbs paint follows the EPA's lead-safe rules. See our lead-safe renovation guide.
How to shorten vacancy days
- Book the crew when notice arrives, not when the keys come back.
- Run trash-out and repair quotes off the pre-move-out walkthrough photos.
- Keep a standard paint color and spare parts kit (bulbs, outlet covers, blinds, smoke detector batteries) for every unit.
- Use one coordinator for trash-out, repairs, paint and cleaning, so the trades hand off without gaps.
- Photograph the finished unit the same day for the listing.
The full room-by-room cleaning list is in our move-out cleaning checklist for landlords.
Sources
- Michigan Legal Help: An Overview of Security Deposits for Landlords
- Michigan Legislature: A Practical Guide for Tenants and Landlords (PDF)
- City of Detroit BSEED: Rental Certificate of Compliance
- U.S. EPA: Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so check the official sources above before you rely on them.
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