Securing the return of your deposit might seem tough, but with the right strategy, it’s completely doable. Ensuring the cleanliness of your apartment or rental home when moving out is critical for getting back your full deposit.
Landlords often require a pristine property for a full deposit refund, which can be difficult. 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
It’s unlikely that you consider your lease a primary 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. If your landlord didn’t send one, many thorough cleaning checklists are available online. Employing a checklist during cleaning is vital to ensure nothing is overlooked, both indoors and outdoors. Skipping even tiny cleaning tasks can lead to significant deductions from your deposit, making it worth the effort.
Tip #3: Think Like a Landlord
For a full refund of your security deposit, try to see things from your landlord’s point of view. Think back to the state of the property when you first arrived and try to match that cleanliness upon leaving. 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
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. If possible, allocate a bit more time to check over some details. As an example, fill nail holes with drywall putty, clean interior windows, and dust 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 Green Hills or the nearby area? Real Property Management Concordia offers the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or call us at 623-217-0413.
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