How to inventory a commercial property cleanout
A room-by-room inventory helps owners, managers, and haulers agree on the same job.
A commercial cleanout begins with a boundary: what is authorized to leave the property? Make that decision room by room before estimating the load. This is especially useful when a tenant has moved out, several people have keys, or some equipment belongs to the building.
Use a simple room record
For each room, write its name, take one wide photo and close photos of unusual items, then list what stays and what goes. Identify records, keys, network equipment, and personal effects for separate handling. Do not put uncertain property into a “remove” pile until the owner or authorized manager decides.
| Room | Remove | Keep or review | Access note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front office | Three desks, six chairs | Files and router | Ground-floor door |
| Storage | Two empty shelving units | Boxed tenant items | Narrow doorway |
The entries above show a blank-inventory format, not a customer job or quote. Replace them with your actual counts and decisions.
Identify material that needs another route
Set aside chemicals, paint, batteries, electronics, and other uncertain materials for review. Washington’s Department of Ecology has separate guidance for business electronic waste, including limits on which small businesses may use E-Cycle Washington. Check the current rules for the actual item and business before arranging disposal. Washington Department of Ecology business e-waste guidance (Washington; checked September 25, 2026).
Finish with access and approval
Record building hours, elevator reservations, loading arrangements, and where the truck may park. Name one person who can approve changes if the on-site contents differ from the inventory. The final scope and estimate should be based on the actual contents.
For a wider mixed load, see commercial property cleanouts. If most of the material is furniture, use the office furniture guide. Contact LocalChoice with the finished inventory.