HomeAdviceSellingAre outbuildings required to be "broom ready" same as house?
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Are outbuildings required to be "broom ready" same as house?

I sold my house and have an old abandoned cabin without any services used as a storage facility. The buyer is requiring me to pay $1600 for cleanup of abandoned items stating it is also required to be broom clean. Nothing in contract states broom clean. Left house broom clean but not cabin. They are threating taking me to court. I don't believe I am responsible for this condition. What is your opinion?

Asked by Cynthia Sessink | Tipton Michigan, FL| 06-28-2023| 994 views|Selling|Updated 2 years ago

Answers (6)

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Kevin Neely

Keller Williams Realty Elite Partners · Spring Hill, FL

(76 reviews)
Whether outbuildings must be delivered broom clean at closing depends on what the purchase contract specifies, not a universal Florida law. The standard FAR/BAR contract used in Florida addresses the condition of the property at closing but does not always distinguish explicitly between the main dwelling and detached structures. In Ridge Manor, Florida, and throughout Hernando County, properties with workshops, pole barns, storage sheds, and agricultural outbuildings are common, and those structures can accumulate equipment, debris, and personal property over years of use. If the expectation is that outbuildings will be clean and empty at closing, that should be written into the contract explicitly rather than assumed. Buyers should walk all outbuildings during inspections, document their contents, and confirm in writing what will remain and what will be removed before the closing date. Sellers benefit from addressing this early to avoid disputes during the final walkthrough. Kevin Neely & Kaitlynd Robbins | K2 Sells
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04-15-2026 (2 weeks ago)··
Amanda Courtney

REP Realty Group · Fort Myers, FL

(13 reviews)
Yes, absolutely. In almost every standard contract, the "Property" includes the land and everything sitting on it—that means the garage, the shed, and the barn. The rule is simple: the property must be free of trash and debris at closing. If you leave a shed full of old tires or paint cans, the buyer can delay the closing or ask for a credit to clean it up. It is best to clear everything out before the final walk-through.
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01-30-2026 (3 months ago)··
Chris Yochum

Dickson Realty · Reno, NV

(24 reviews)
Many agreements will state that the entire property is to be vacated in reasonably clean condition. This should have likely been addressed at the final walk through. It can be agreed on to leave things behind as long as both parties agree. At the end of the day, sounds like the buyer doesnt want the items and it would generally make sense to have someone come pick up the items and ensure its reasonably clean or come up with a solution to compensate for someone else to address.
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07-05-2023 (2 years ago)··
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Tammi NicholasRising Star19 Answers
Tammi Nicholas

Epic Real Estate · Mustang, OK

(1 review)
If this was not conveyed in the contract, I believe if they were provided the final walk-through and did not address it then, it may not be a problem. You should consult a real estate attorney. This is their area of expertise.
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08-10-2023 (2 years ago)··
Colleen CotterRising Star11 Answers
Colleen Cotter

Vanguard Properties · San Francisco, CA

(43 reviews)
This is usually addressed in the contract & every contract is different. Generally, I would say that it is a good practice to leave everything broom swept & debris removed. It is also good to confirm & clarify in advance or during the walk through, any items that might not be clear!
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07-10-2023 (2 years ago)··
Kelly ThateNovice2 Answers
Kelly Thate

Keller Williams · Austin, TX

(27 reviews)
When you move out of the home you should remove everything that does not convey with the sale. I would say the buyer should not pay to have your items removed from the house. Kelly
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07-01-2023 (2 years ago)··
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