In most turns, the trash-out is the first domino. Painters, cleaners and flooring can't start until the unit is empty, so every day spent waiting on a hauler is a day of vacancy loss. This checklist keeps it to hours, not days.
Before the trash-out
- Confirm the unit is legally available: move-out date passed, keys returned, or — for evictions — your office and counsel have authorized removal.
- Photograph every room, closet, balcony and storage space before anything is touched.
- Note anything that may be hazardous (chemicals, propane, sharps) so the crew can avoid it.
- Book the trash-out at the same time you schedule paint and cleaning, not after.
During the trash-out
- Clear balconies, patios, closets and assigned storage — the places most often missed.
- Separate anything your office wants held (documents, valuables) according to your policy.
- Broom-sweep so the cleaning crew can start immediately.
After the trash-out
- Photograph every room again from the same angles.
- Record the volume removed for the resident ledger.
- Release the unit to make-ready the same day.
Why contract rates matter
Calling for a quote every time adds a day or more to every turn. A trash-out rate written into your vendor agreement means one call books the job and the charge-back to the resident is already documented.
Want the numbers for your community? Use the NOI calculator or request a proposal.
More guides
- How Valet Trash Pricing Works for Apartment Communities
- Switching Valet Trash Providers Without a Gap in Service
- What a Valet Trash Contract Should Include
- Valet Trash Resident Rules: A Template for Property Managers
- How to Stop Illegal Dumping at Apartment Dumpster Corrals
- Apartment Dryer Vent Cleaning: What Property Managers Need to Know
- Apartment Storage Room Cleanouts Before Inspections