Obtaining your security deposit might feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it’s absolutely achievable. 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. 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
Your lease might not be the initial place you seek out cleaning tips. However, as a renter, your lease documents (including any addenda) likely contain information about 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
Reliable landlords usually provide tenants with a move-out checklist when they give notice of moving out. 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. 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. However, it takes little extra effort to move your unwanted items to the curb or donate them to a thrift store. Additionally, if you leave your items behind, the landlord may charge you for cleanup and removal. Therefore, you will receive a reduced amount of your security deposit.
Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile
Amid the hustle of moving out, it can be tempting to skimp on cleaning 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. Fill nail holes with drywall putty, and make sure 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.
Searching for a new rental in St Charles or the surrounding vicinity? Real Property Management Three Bridges can find the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or call us at 636-542-8852.
Originally Published on August 28, 2020
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