While getting your security deposit back may appear challenging, it’s fully achievable with the proper approach. Ensuring the cleanliness of your apartment or rental home when moving out is critical for getting back your full deposit.
Generally, landlords expect the rental to be immaculate for a full deposit return, which can be tough. In this piece, we’ll give you crucial cleaning tips and strategies to leave your rental looking fantastic, impress your landlord, and increase your likelihood of a hassle-free deposit return.
Tip #1: Read Your Lease
Your lease might not be the obvious source for cleaning tips. Yet, as a renter, your lease paperwork (including addenda) probably has details on your landlord’s expectations. You can often find answers to questions such as if carpets need professional cleaning, which areas will be inspected, and more.
Tip #2: Get (and Use) A Move-Out Checklist
Responsible landlords often send a move-out checklist to tenants when they announce they are leaving. Should your landlord fail to provide one, you can still access numerous 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. Recall how the property looked when you moved in and strive to leave it just as clean. If unsure, consult your landlord to clarify their standards for “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
Many tenants tend to abandon items they no longer need or want in a rental house. But it’s hardly any extra effort to bring your unwanted belongings to the curb or a thrift shop. Additionally, if you leave your items behind, the landlord may charge you for cleanup and removal. Consequently, your security deposit refund will be reduced.
Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile
Amid the hustle of moving out, it can be tempting to skimp on cleaning and cut corners. While this may be effective in rare cases, it typically causes deductions from your security deposit for cleaning and repairs. If you can, dedicate a little more time to look over some details. Patch nail holes with drywall putty, and ensure you’ve cleaned interior windows and dusted blinds and ceiling fans.
Following these move-out cleaning tips will ensure your landlord has minimal complaints and no grounds to withhold any of your security deposit for cleanliness.
Do you need a new rental in Polk County or the nearby area? Real Property Management Lakeside provides the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or call us at 863-877-1078.
Originally Published on August 28, 2020
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