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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.Recovering your security deposit can seem daunting, but rest assured, it’s entirely possible with the correct method. Whether vacating an apartment or a rental property, keeping it spotless is crucial for receiving your full deposit.

A completely clean property is what most landlords expect for a full refund, making it a challenging task. 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

You probably don’t think of your lease as the go-to for cleaning advice. Still, as a renter, your lease documents and any addenda often include what your landlord expects. Often, the lease will answer questions about professional carpet cleaning, inspection areas, and more.

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

Conscientious landlords generally issue a move-out checklist to tenants upon receiving notice of departure. However, if your landlord did not provide one, you can easily find comprehensive cleaning checklists online. A cleaning checklist is essential to ensure you don’t forget any tasks, inside or in the yard. 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 reclaim your entire security deposit, adopt your landlord’s viewpoint. Reflect on the property’s original cleanliness and ensure it looks the same when you move out. For any uncertainties, speak to your landlord to understand their definition of “clean” and their expectations. Bear in mind that the next tenant desires a clean home, so maintain it as you would like it if you were the new tenant.

Tip #4: Don’t Leave Stuff Behind

Tenants often leave behind belongings they no longer need or want in a rental property. It’s not much harder to put your unwanted items at the curb or take them to a thrift store. Also, if you leave your stuff, the landlord is likely to charge you for its removal and cleanup. This means you’ll receive a smaller security deposit refund.

Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile

In the frenzy of moving out, the temptation to do minimal cleaning and cut corners can be strong. Although this might be acceptable in some cases, it often results in deductions from your security deposit 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.

By using these move-out cleaning tips, you’ll give your landlord little reason to complain and no excuse to deduct from your security deposit for cleanliness.

Looking for a new rental in Brooksville or nearby? Real Property Management Connection has an ideal home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 727-279-7779.

 

Originally Published on August 28, 2020

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