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[quote=Anonymous]If you are in DC the landlord is required to give 24 hours notice before entering the property unless it is an emergency. In addition, most leases do not specify the level of cleanliness other than to state that efforts must be made to maintain the property as not to attract pests (insects, rodents). It is usually stated that the property needs to be left in that same condition as when you found it; however, telling you how to maintain the condition of your house while you are living there is over-stepping on the part of the landlord with the exception of a serious problem (i.e. hoarding, so dirty as to attract pests, etc).

It sounds like your "landlord" doesn't know the laws or doesn't wish to abide by them. I am a landlord for several properties in the city and I can tell you that I would never dictate how a tenant should live in the space. I have had tenants that lived in a way that I would never want to live (dirty dishes, dirt and hair everywhere, an overall dirty sense of the place...), but I would never say anything because it is not my business. However, I do expect that the property is in the same condition upon leaving as when a tenant moved in. If it is not then that is what I have a security deposit for. I have retained money from the security deposit because tenants have not cleaned properly and that is clearly stated in the lease.

OP - you need to let the landlord know that she is violating the DC law (if you are in DC). Go online and find the laws related to a landlord entering a property and forward them to her. She will not like it, but you have the right to let her know where she is over-stepping the boundaries.At the same time, you must learn what is expected when you move out. Assume that the property should be thoroughly cleaned - that includes making sure the oven is cleaned, the refrigerator is cleaned and the kitchen and bathrooms are also cleaned thoroughly. If you have carpeting then you may need to shampoo the carpet before moving out. If you have broken anything (holes in walls, etc.) you will need to repair those. If you cannot get them fixed then you need to let the landlord know and then make an agreement about the cost of the repair. Also, allow yourself time after moving everything out to clean the house completely. If you do not do this then the landlord has the right to charge you for all of the cleaning.[/quote]

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