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Tips for Getting Your Full Security Deposit Back

A man and woman tidying a room filled with boxes, organizing, and cleaning the space together.Securing the return of your deposit might seem tough, but with the right strategy, it’s completely doable. Moving out of either an apartment or a rental home, keeping the place clean is vital for a full refund of your deposit.

A completely clean property is what most landlords expect for a full refund, making it a challenging task. Here, we’ll share vital cleaning tips and strategies so you can leave your rental in great shape, wow your landlord, and improve your odds of getting your deposit back effortlessly.

Tip #1: Read Your Lease

You probably don’t think of your lease as the go-to for cleaning advice. Nevertheless, as a renter, your lease agreement and any addenda likely outline your landlord’s expectations. Commonly, answers to whether carpets need professional cleaning, which areas will be inspected, and similar questions are in the lease.

Tip #2: Get (and Use) A Move-Out Checklist

Trustworthy landlords often provide a move-out checklist to tenants around the time they give notice of leaving. Yet, if your landlord did not offer one, numerous detailed cleaning checklists can be found online. Utilizing a checklist while cleaning is crucial to avoid missing any tasks inside or outside. Neglecting small cleaning tasks can add up to large deductions from your deposit, so it’s definitely worth the effort.

Tip #3: Think Like a Landlord

To maximize the return of your security deposit, consider the perspective of your landlord. Think back to the state of the property when you first arrived and try to match that cleanliness upon leaving. If you have any queries, ask your landlord to explain their idea of “clean” and their expectations. Also, consider that the next tenant will appreciate a clean house, so leave it as you would like to find it.

Tip #4: Don’t Leave Stuff Behind

Leaving behind personal items in a rental home is a frequent occurrence among tenants. Nonetheless, taking your unwanted junk to the curb or a thrift store requires minimal effort. Moreover, if you abandon your belongings, the landlord will likely bill you for their disposal. This means you’ll receive a smaller security deposit refund.

Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile

During the hectic process of moving out, you might feel inclined to do the bare minimum cleaning and take shortcuts. This approach might sometimes be sufficient, but usually, it leads to security deposit deductions for cleaning and repairs. If you’re able, give yourself a bit more time to review certain details. For example, patch nail holes with drywall putty and check that interior windows are clean, and blinds and ceiling fans are dusted.

Adhering to these move-out cleaning tips will leave your landlord with little to complain about and no reason to withhold any of your security deposit for cleanliness.

Are you searching for a new rental in Evansville or the surrounding area? Real Property Management Results offers the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 812-461-1676.

 

Originally Published on August 28, 2020

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