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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.Securing the return of your deposit might seem tough, but with the right strategy, it’s completely doable. Regardless of moving out from an apartment or a rental home, cleanliness is key to getting your full deposit back.

Most landlords look for a perfectly clean place to give back the full deposit, which can be hard to achieve. 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

Your lease might not be the initial place you seek out cleaning tips. Still, as a renter, your lease documents and any addenda often include what your landlord expects. Frequently, you’ll find answers to questions about professional carpet cleaning, inspection areas, and other details.

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

Conscientious landlords generally issue a move-out checklist to tenants upon receiving notice of departure. Even if you didn’t receive one from your landlord, there are plenty of detailed cleaning checklists online. Utilizing a checklist while cleaning is crucial to avoid missing any tasks inside or outside. 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 you have any queries, ask your landlord to explain their idea of “clean” and their expectations. Remember, the next tenant will want a clean home, so treat the property as you would want it if you were moving in.

Tip #4: Don’t Leave Stuff Behind

Tenants commonly leave their unwanted belongings in rental properties. It’s not much harder to put your unwanted items at the curb or take them to a thrift store. Furthermore, leaving your possessions behind will probably result in cleanup charges from the landlord. This means you’ll receive a smaller security deposit refund.

Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile

During the hectic process of moving out, you might feel inclined to do the bare minimum cleaning and take shortcuts. Even if this approach works occasionally, it generally leads to deductions from your security deposit for cleaning and repairs. If feasible, take a bit more time to examine some details. For example, patch nail holes with drywall putty and check that interior windows are clean, and blinds and ceiling fans are dusted.

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.

Looking for a new rental in Eagle or nearby? Real Property Management Boise offers the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 208-494-1800.

 

Originally Published on August 28, 2020

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