It might feel difficult to get your security deposit back, but don’t worry, it’s entirely manageable with the right steps. Whether you’re leaving an apartment or a rental house, making sure it’s clean is essential for a full deposit return.
Most landlords look for a perfectly clean place to give back the full deposit, which can be hard to achieve. We’ll offer key cleaning tips and strategies in this article to help you leave your rental spotless, impress your landlord, and ensure you get your deposit back with ease.
Tip #1: Read Your Lease
It’s unlikely that you consider your lease a primary source for cleaning tips. Still, as a renter, your lease documents and any addenda often include what your landlord expects. Frequently, you’ll find answers to questions about professional carpet cleaning, inspection areas, and other details.
Tip #2: Get (and Use) A Move-Out Checklist
Reliable landlords usually provide tenants with a move-out checklist when they give notice of moving out. However, if your landlord did not provide one, you can easily find comprehensive cleaning checklists online. Relying on a checklist as you clean is key to making sure you don’t neglect anything inside or outside. Missing even minor cleaning tasks can lead to substantial deductions from your security deposit, so it’s worth the effort.
Tip #3: Think Like a Landlord
To get your full security deposit back, imagine being in your landlord’s position. Reflect on the property’s original cleanliness and ensure it looks the same when you move out. Should you have any doubts, inquire with your landlord about what they mean by “clean” and what they expect. Keep in mind that the next occupant will expect cleanliness, so leave the property as you would want it if you were moving in.
Tip #4: Don’t Leave Stuff Behind
Tenants often leave behind belongings they no longer need or want in a rental property. Yet, it’s not significantly harder to take your unwanted items to the curb or a thrift shop. If you leave your belongings on the property, the landlord will probably charge you for removing them. Therefore, you will receive a reduced amount of your security deposit.
Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile
In the rush of moving out, you might be tempted to minimize cleaning and cut corners. Although this might work occasionally, it usually results in security deposit deductions for cleaning and repairs. If possible, allocate a bit more time to check over some details. For instance, fill nail holes with drywall putty and ensure interior windows are cleaned, blinds are dusted, and ceiling fans are wiped down.
Stick to these move-out cleaning tips, and your landlord will have little to complain about and no excuse to withhold any of your security deposit for cleanliness.
Searching for a new rental in Argyle or the surrounding vicinity? Real Property Management Lakeview has just the right home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 940-323-0505.
Originally Published on August 28, 2020
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