Security Deposit Cleaning Fee Calculator Guide
Estimate move-out cleaning deductions from documented hours, rate, scope, and state itemization notes.
Short answer
Cleaning charges are usually service charges, not depreciation items. A better worksheet starts with documented hours, hourly rate, and what cleaning was required beyond ordinary turnover.
Worksheet preset: cleaning charge article
Source: State deposit statutes and itemization rules. Cleaning is a service charge, not a depreciating item. Use documented hours and reasonable rate.
Formula: chargeable = max(0, replacement_cost x remaining_life / useful_life) - wear_allowance, then multiplied by documented damage share.
Cleaning charge comparison
| Method | Best use | Problem | |---|---|---| | Hours times rate | Itemized cleaning invoice | Needs reasonable scope | | Flat automatic fee | Lease-defined cleaning program | Can conflict with state rules | | Full deposit retention | Severe trash-out facts | Needs strong documentation |
How to calculate
Enter the total cleaning charge as the cost. Keep age at zero, because cleaning is not an asset with multi-year remaining life. Use the note field for rooms, trash-out, appliance cleaning, or carpet cleaning references.
Worksheet preset: cleaning charge article
Source: State deposit statutes and itemization rules. Cleaning is a service charge, not a depreciating item. Use documented hours and reasonable rate.
Formula: chargeable = max(0, replacement_cost x remaining_life / useful_life) - wear_allowance, then multiplied by documented damage share.
FAQ
Are automatic cleaning fees always allowed?
No. State law and lease terms matter. Use the worksheet to isolate the arithmetic, then check the rule source for the state.
What evidence helps?
Before and after photos, cleaner invoice, scope of work, and move-in condition records.