Obtaining your security deposit might feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it’s absolutely achievable. Whether vacating an apartment or a rental property, keeping it spotless is crucial for receiving your full deposit.
Typically, landlords want a spotless rental for returning the full deposit, which can be challenging. This article will provide essential cleaning tips and strategies to leave your rental in excellent condition, impress your landlord, and boost your chances of getting your deposit back without hassle.
Tip #1: Read Your Lease
The lease agreement may not be where you’d first look for cleaning advice. However, as a renter, your lease documents (including any addenda) likely contain information about your landlord’s expectations. Typically, your lease will provide answers to whether carpets need professional cleaning, which parts will be inspected, and so forth.
Tip #2: Get (and Use) A Move-Out Checklist
Dependable landlords typically give tenants a move-out checklist when they inform them of their move. If your landlord didn’t send one, many thorough cleaning checklists are available online. A cleaning checklist is essential to ensure you don’t forget any tasks, inside or in the yard. 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. Keep in mind the initial condition of the property and aim to restore it to that level of cleanliness. If you need clarification, ask your landlord what they consider “clean” and what they expect. Think about how the next tenant will want a clean space, and leave it as you would want to move into it.
Tip #4: Don’t Leave Stuff Behind
Tenants commonly leave their unwanted belongings in rental properties. However, it takes little extra effort to move your unwanted items to the curb or donate them to a thrift store. Also, if you leave your stuff, the landlord is likely to charge you for its removal and cleanup. This results in a smaller return of your security deposit.
Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile
While moving out, it might be tempting to clean as little as possible and cut corners. 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. As an example, fill nail holes with drywall putty, clean interior windows, and dust blinds and ceiling fans.
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.
Are you in the market for a new rental in Satellite Beach or close by? Real Property Management Brevard can find the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 321-610-8022.
Originally Published on August 28, 2020
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