While obtaining your security deposit after moving might seem impossible, it isn’t. Essentially, a security deposit is your money, so there’s hope when the time comes to move out. Coming up with the security deposit can be a stretch and it would be a great waste if you lost it. Fortunately, these steps will help you get it back.
1. Review Your Lease
Your lease will inform you whether to provide notice and the amount of time required. As long as you don’t breach the agreement, the landlord won’t have a valid cause to retain your deposit.
Examine the termination clause carefully and establish the exact amount of notice you’re expected to issue once you decide to move out. Additionally, you should pay keen attention to the changes you’re permitted to make to the apartment.
2. Fill Out an Inspection Checklist
Fill out the checklist the landlord provides and ensure everything’s functioning while noting any marks and flaws. Besides checking off all boxes, take videos or pictures of your rental before unpacking your boxes.
Pay keen attention to anything that appears less than stellar. With documentation, the landlord can’t hold you liable for damage. Once you fill out the checklist, create a dated and signed copy for you and the property owner.
3. Maintain the Unit
While you aren’t responsible for ordinary wear and tear, you’re expected to maintain it in a good condition. Be cautious when mounting pictures, shelves, or other items on the walls. Beware that some fixtures could leave some unsightly holes.
4. Inform Your Landlord
Write a simple letter to the landlord indicating your intention to move out. You don’t have to justify the reasons for moving out. Nevertheless, you might want to consider including some details if it’s the result of unattended repairs or a severe infestation.
Indicate your new address and remind the property owner to forward the deposit to the new address. Remember to include your signature and the date. Ensure you keep a copy in a safe place.
5. Pay the Last Month’s Rent
Numerous renters perceive the security deposit as the last month’s rent. However, unless the contract states this explicitly, that mentality could hurt you. Make sure you pay it in a timely manner and maintain a copy of your check or receipt.
6. Make Minor Repairs
If you’ve caused any damage, make repairs and ensure they’re compliant with the agreement. Keep in mind that the landlord will probably charge you more to make repairs than it would cost if you did the same but don’t overdo it.
Just make repairs that you can perform fast and affordably. Easy repairs include patching holes, painting, and replacing batteries and light bulbs.
7. Clean Up
It’s imperative you clean the rental thoroughly before moving out. Pay keen attention to the kitchen and bathroom. Clean the bathroom tiling and toilet, scrub the oven, and clear the dishwasher drain. Don’t forget to clean the windows. A simple vacuum and dust to other rooms will suffice.
8. Clear Out
You must leave the rental empty to be on the safe side and obtain your deposit. In the event that you leave anything behind, particularly something huge, the landlord will need to hire somebody to remove it and this will come out of your deposit. Ensure you double check closets, storage areas, and cabinets.
9. Request a Final Walk-through
Request the landlord to inspect the unit with you once you’ve cleaned up. Bear in mind that landlords don’t have to agree to perform a walk-through with you. Actually, most prefer to do it alone at their leisure.
10. Return the Keys
Don’t forget this step otherwise, it will cost you. It’s important you contact the landlord and schedule time to drop off the keys. Ensure you return everything including mailbox and gate keys. Otherwise, you’ll incur a replacement fee for any key you take.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining your security deposit might seem daunting or perhaps impossible but this isn’t the case if you follow these steps.
For more information on how to get your security deposit back, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a message.