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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.It might feel difficult to get your security deposit back, but don’t worry, it’s entirely manageable with the right steps. Whether you’re leaving an apartment or a rental house, making sure it’s clean is essential for a full deposit return.

Landlords often require a pristine property for a full deposit refund, which can be difficult. Here, we’ll share vital cleaning tips and strategies so you can leave your rental in great shape, wow your landlord, and improve your odds of getting your deposit back effortlessly.

Tip #1: Read Your Lease

You probably don’t think of your lease as the go-to for cleaning advice. However, as a renter, your lease documents (including any addenda) likely contain information about your landlord’s expectations. 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

Reliable landlords usually provide tenants with a move-out checklist when they give notice of moving out. If your landlord didn’t send one, many thorough cleaning checklists are available online. Utilizing a checklist while cleaning is crucial to avoid missing any tasks inside or outside. Missing even minor cleaning tasks can lead to substantial deductions from your security deposit, so it’s 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. Should you have any doubts, inquire with your landlord about what they mean by “clean” and what they expect. 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

Many tenants tend to abandon items they no longer need or want in a rental house. Nonetheless, taking your unwanted junk to the curb or a thrift store requires minimal effort. Moreover, if you abandon your belongings, the landlord will likely bill you for their disposal. Therefore, you will receive a reduced amount of your security deposit.

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. Although this might work occasionally, it usually results in security deposit deductions 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.

Stick to these move-out cleaning tips, and your landlord will have little to complain about and no excuse to withhold any of your security deposit for cleanliness.

Searching for a new rental in Clermont or the surrounding vicinity? Real Property Management Alliances has just the right home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 407-378-7611.

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