Moving? Get Your Security Deposit Back: Your How-To Guide
Whether you're moving into a new apartment or buying a house, moving out of a rental can be stressful. You want to be sure you're doing all you can to maximize your return on your security deposit, and it can be tough to balance cleaning and packing with getting into your new home. So here, we'll go over a few simple steps that you can take to get your security deposit where it belongs: back in your wallet.
Know Your Landlord's Expectations
Determine your landlord's move-out requirements and if they have a formal list of conditions that you need to meet to get your security deposit back.
Some landlords ask that you simply move out all of your belongings, leaving the cleaning to a cleaning crew that they hire. Others ask that you move through a detailed cleaning checklist to help them prepare the space for the next tenant. For example, you may need to shampoo the carpets, remove and wash the blinds, and return any painted walls to their original colors. If you've made any semi-permanent changes (such as installing curtain rods) that you don't mind leaving behind, you may want to ask your landlord if they'd be okay with leaving certain things behind.
Consider Hiring A Cleaning Crew
It’s okay to ask for help with the cleaning process, and hiring a trusted cleaning crew can be a smart way to take some of the load off. If your landlord has provided a specific list of tasks that you need to complete to get your security deposit back, communicate this information to the cleaning crew. You may also want to talk to your landlord to see if they have any cleaning crew recommendations. Some landlords work with one cleaning company and guarantee the return of a security deposit if the tenant agrees to use the same company for their pre-moveout clean.
Don't Hide Problems
If something is broken or in poor condition, don't try to hide it from your landlord before your final moveout inspection. If you're honest with your landlord, they may agree that the item was outdated or needed to be fixed anyway. However, failing to address issues before your final inspection makes it more likely that the landlord will simply charge full price for any issues.
Return Your Keys
Remember to return your keys. Unfortunately, some tenants forget this vital step, which can cost you money.
Make an appointment with your landlord to drop off the keys. Make sure you give them everything you have, including all copies of your unit key and mailbox keys. Otherwise, your landlord can charge you a replacement fee for each key you take with you.
Preparing To Move? We Can Help!
Getting through everything on your to-do list can be tricky when you're getting ready to move into your new home. You don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to us today for a quote on our moving services to make settling into your new home easier.