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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. Ensuring the cleanliness of your apartment or rental home when moving out is critical for getting back your full deposit.

A completely clean property is what most landlords expect for a full refund, making it a challenging task. We’ll offer key cleaning tips and strategies in this article to help you leave your rental spotless, impress your landlord, and ensure you get your deposit back with ease.

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. 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. Minor cleaning tasks left undone might result in major deductions from your security deposit, so the effort is justified.

Tip #3: Think Like a Landlord

To maximize the return of your security deposit, consider the perspective of your landlord. Remember the property’s initial state and leave it as clean as it was when you arrived. 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

Tenants often leave behind belongings they no longer need or want in a rental property. Yet, it’s not significantly harder to take your unwanted items to the curb or a thrift shop. 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

In the frenzy of moving out, the temptation to do minimal cleaning and cut corners can be strong. This approach might sometimes be sufficient, but usually, it leads to security deposit deductions for cleaning and repairs. If possible, allocate a bit more time to check over some details. For instance, fill nail holes with drywall putty and ensure interior windows are cleaned, blinds are dusted, and ceiling fans are wiped down.

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 searching for a new rental in White Plains or the surrounding area? Real Property Management DePenn offers the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or call us at 866-820-9913.

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