The Ultimate Shanghai Apartment Check-Out Guide (2026)
The Master Check-Out Guide: Closing Your Shanghai Lease in 2026.
The check-out process is the final step of your journey in Shanghai. To ensure the full return of your security deposit and a positive reference for your next home, a structured departure is absolutely essential.
At Here | Housing & Coliving Solutions, we assist our clients in closing their lease just as carefully as they opened it. Scroll through our step-by-step guide to navigate your move-out like a professional.
Schedule Your Appointment Early
Coordinate with your landlord and your Here agent at least two weeks before your official move-out date. We highly recommend scheduling the check-out during daylight hours for a clear, undisputed inspection of the property’s condition.
The Final Walkthrough Inspection
This is the moment of truth. Conduct a room-by-room walkthrough alongside the landlord.
- Fair Wear and Tear: It is vital to differentiate between "fair wear and tear" (expected aging of the property) and actual "damage."
- Professional Support: Our team helps mediate these conversations to ensure you aren't unfairly charged for minor, age-related issues.
Comparing the Original Inventory Report
Refer directly back to the Inventory and Condition Report signed at move-in.
- Verification: Confirm all items listed (appliances, furniture, remotes) are present and in the same functional condition as when you arrived.
- Documentation: Both parties should sign a "Closing Statement" or a final version of the report to legally acknowledge the handover is complete.
Cleaning & Minor Repairs
A clean apartment is the fastest, most effective way to a fully returned deposit.
- Deep Clean: We strongly recommend hiring a professional cleaning service. A spotless flat leaves a great impression and heavily minimizes landlord complaints.
- Repairs: Replace any burnt-out lightbulbs and repair minor damages (like small nail holes in walls) before the landlord arrives for the inspection.
Final Utility Settlement
Ensure all outstanding balances are paid and accounts are unlinked.
- Meter Readings: Take final, date-stamped photos of the water, electricity, and gas meters.
- Settlement: Show proof of your final payments on Alipay or WeChat Pay. Don't forget to cancel or formally transfer your home internet subscription to your new address.
The Official Key Return
Hand over all sets of physical keys and electronic access cards directly to the landlord or manager.
- Access Check: Remember to include keys for mailboxes, basement storage units, and compound gates. Once keys are handed over, your legal possession of and liability for the property ends.
Securing Your Security Deposit
This is the most critical step of the process. Clearly discuss the exact timeline for the deposit return.
- The Standard: Deposits are usually returned via bank transfer, Alipay, or WeChat Pay within 7 to 14 days after move-out, minus any explicitly agreed-upon deductions for repairs or unpaid bills.
- Receipts: Ensure you have a written record (even a confirmed WeChat message) of the final agreed-upon refund amount.
Providing a Forwarding Address
Leave your new contact details and exact bank information with the landlord. This ensures that any final mail, package deliveries, or the deposit refund itself reaches you without unnecessary delay.
Lease Obligation Review
Ensure all "fapiao" (official tax invoices) have been issued if required by your company, and that there are no remaining contractual obligations. If you utilized a "diplomatic clause" to break the lease early, ensure all required supporting documents from your HR department were formally provided.
Final "Here" Confirmation
Before you leave the premises, your Here | Housing & Coliving specialist will do a final sweep to ensure the property is locked, all appliances are off, and windows are closed. You are now ready for your next chapter!
Need Help Closing Your Lease?.
The team at Here | Housing & Coliving is dedicated to making your transition as seamless as possible, protecting your deposit and your peace of mind.
