Broom Clean
Definition and meaning of Broom Clean in real estate.
Broom clean is a real estate term used to describe the condition in which a seller or tenant must leave a property upon moving out.
In more detail
This standard is typically written into residential lease agreements and home purchase contracts as a basic condition for the final walkthrough. While broom clean does not mean a property must be professionally detailed or deep-cleaned, it requires that the home be free of debris and large piles of dirt.
Disputes occasionally arise during the final inspection if the seller leaves unwanted items behind, such as half-empty paint cans or broken furniture. Buyers may request seller credits or delay the closing if the property fails to meet this contractual requirement. Tenants may lose a portion of their security deposit if they violate this clause.
Key facts
| Category | Buying & Selling |
|---|---|
| Typical timing | Completed just prior to the final walkthrough and closing |
| Watch out for | Unwanted personal items, trash, and heavy debris left behind |
| Required by | Standard purchase contracts and residential lease agreements |
Before handing over the keys to the buyers, the sellers remove all furniture, take out the trash, and sweep the hardwood floors to ensure the home is in broom clean condition.
Frequently asked questions
Does broom clean mean the property must be professionally cleaned?
No, professional deep cleaning is not required unless it is explicitly specified in the contract or lease agreement.
What should a buyer do if the house is not broom clean?
The buyer should document the issues with photos and ask their agent to negotiate a credit or demand that the seller remove the items before closing.