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Do You Want Your Security Deposit Back? 5 Habits That Will Help

Couple Deep Cleaning Windows in Apartment

If you are the same as all renters, you’d like to get your security deposit back if you move out. On the other hand, did you grasp that one of the vital methods to make certain you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the fundamental causes of Holly Springs property managers withholding security deposit funds, to begin with. So it is logical to decrease the number of potential repairs that will need to be executed after you move out. You can develop various habits as a renter to make it a point that you leave the property in the best condition and, particularly, that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.

Document Everything

Getting your security deposit back really starts before you move into your new rental home! The reason for this is that the condition of the house before you move is not technically your responsibility, though if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to blame you. Consequently, before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. Lots of landlords will give a walk-through checklist, which you should fill out and keep a copy of. However, even if they don’t, make notes in regards to any existing damage, regardless of how small, and potential repair and maintenance items. Especially, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does happen, this will be probable evidence to support your case.

Regular Deep Cleaning

One of the very important things you can do to make certain you get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home often. The longer you stay in a home, the more important it will be to keep up with your cleaning regimen. Although surface cleaning will keep a lot of the grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are required if you plan to stay in your rental home long-term. Deep cleaning should include scrubbing grout, wiping down kitchen cabinets and ceiling fans, cleaning appliances (fridge, oven, microwave, and dishwasher), and accomplishing basic appliance maintenance. In addition, remember to clear hair from drains, change light bulbs, and dust blinds and ceiling fans. Accomplishing these tasks regularly will help see to it your landlord doesn’t withhold a part of your security deposit for cleaning after you’re gone.

Decorate with Care

Another effective way to increase your chances of getting your security deposit back is to be very careful when you decorate your rental home. Making many holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can bring about more extravagant repairs after moving out, all of which you will be held responsible for. Instead of using nails or screws to hang up your décor items, it’s better to take advantage of non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of different weights and sizes and frequently can be removed without damaging the wall.

Think of putting into use coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other large items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is common and pricy to repair. On the other hand, by planning and having suitable supplies, you can steer clear of gouging or scraping floors or tearing carpet when moving furniture around.

Minimize Damage

If you have kids or pets living in your rental with you, it’s significant to do as much as you can to minimize any damage they may bring about. Both children and pets can be harmful to a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which simply means taking various extra precautions. You might contemplate positioning furniture or other items against the walls to save them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and grant a soft place for your little ones to relish in and enjoy. Or, it may be advantageous to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to very few rooms. Use quality cleaning materials, namely magic erasers to eliminate scuffs and rogue scribbles.

Communication is Key

One last thing, it’s relevant to always communicate with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues occur in the home, but certainly, it’s smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can handle them speedily. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help you avoid major repairs later. Likewise, any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; however, during your lease, the landlord always pays for repairs as long as you are still living in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better make sure you will get your full security deposit back after moving out.

 

Are you planning to move? Real Property Management Excellence can help! Contact us today or check out our listings online.

 

Originally Published on April 16, 2021

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