While getting your security deposit back may appear challenging, it’s fully achievable with the proper approach. Regardless of moving out from an apartment or a rental home, cleanliness is key to getting your full deposit back.
Typically, landlords want a spotless rental for returning the full deposit, which can be challenging. This article aims to equip you with essential cleaning tips and strategies to leave your rental in top condition, impress your landlord, and enhance your chances of a smooth deposit return.
Tip #1: Read Your Lease
The lease agreement may not be where you’d first look for cleaning advice. Yet, as a renter, your lease paperwork (including addenda) probably has details on 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. Even if you didn’t receive one from your landlord, there are plenty of detailed cleaning checklists online. Employing a checklist during cleaning is vital to ensure nothing is overlooked, both indoors and outdoors. Even overlooked minor cleaning tasks could result in considerable deductions from your deposit, making the effort worthwhile.
Tip #3: Think Like a Landlord
A great way to ensure you receive your full security deposit is to think like your landlord. Remember the property’s initial state and leave it as clean as it was when you arrived. If unsure, consult your landlord to clarify their standards for “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
Tenants commonly leave their unwanted belongings in rental properties. 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. 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. While this may be effective in rare cases, it typically causes deductions from your security deposit for cleaning and repairs. When you can, set aside extra time to go over some specifics. For instance, fill nail holes with drywall putty and ensure interior windows are cleaned, blinds are dusted, and ceiling fans are wiped down.
Use these move-out cleaning tips to leave your landlord with almost nothing to complain about and no reason to deduct from your security deposit for cleanliness.
Do you need a new rental in Charlotte or the nearby area? Real Property Management Value provides the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 704-285-2228.
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