At some point in your life, you may have seen the term "broom sweep condition". What does it mean? It's a quaint usage of words usually seen as it applies to rental leases or real estate contracts. You may also hear "broom swept". This is a term that refers to how clean the place is or is not left for the new tenant. Let's say you liquidated the estate you inherited from your grandfather – how clean should you leave the place after clearing out of it?
The precise definition of "broom sweep condition" is pretty much up in the air. For different people, it means different things. (It has very little to do with using an actual broom.) It does, however, come with certain consequences and expectations that, based on whether you own or rent your home, can vary.
The big factor, when it comes to leaving a rental property clean upon move out, usually boils down to whether or not a security deposit is being held. Think about what condition the place was in when you took up residence. In most cases, it should look just like that, or better. There is likely an acceptable level of wear-and-tear to be expected, but aside from that, your belongings should all be gone, floors should be clean, and carpeting should be vacuumed.
What's more, if you put up curtains you will want to reverse any alterations. Take down the window installations you put up (unless you agreed to leave them).
Here, it's more of a courtesy to leave a place broom clean than anything else. One of the biggest factors is that no one's holding a security deposit ransom if you don't clean the place up. Regardless, it's just plain good form to leave a residence in relatively decent shape.
Upon moving out, is a home seller unequivocally required to clean up? They are not. In some cases, the removal of an object in the residence may be part of the contract, however. Think of a large basement chest-type freezer, for instance.
There's really no excuse to leave behind a bunch of possessions when you give up a residence. Especially since it's so very easy to get personal property liquidated and maybe make a little money in doing so. More on that shortly.
If you leave a place broom clean, what does that entail? Here are some high points:
At Wm. Roland Appraisers & Estate Advisors, we stand ready to help you downsize or liquidate your estate. We have a vast array of services, we not only appraise but purchase regularly. Check out the items we buy here.
As established reputable liquidators, estate advisors, and appraisers, we provide prices that are fair and competitive. Contact us today and find out more by phoning 212-425-0221.
