Recovering your security deposit can seem daunting, but rest assured, it’s entirely possible with the correct method. Regardless of moving out from an apartment or a rental home, cleanliness is key to getting your full deposit back.
Landlords often require a pristine property for a full deposit refund, which can be difficult. This article aims to equip you with essential cleaning tips and strategies to leave your rental in top condition, impress your landlord, and enhance your chances of a smooth deposit return.
Tip #1: Read Your Lease
Your lease might not be the initial place you seek out cleaning tips. Though, as a renter, the lease documents and addenda likely detail your landlord’s expectations. Often, the lease will answer questions about professional carpet cleaning, inspection areas, and more.
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. Referring to a checklist while you clean is important to make sure you don’t miss any areas 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 reclaim your entire security deposit, adopt your landlord’s viewpoint. Remember the property’s initial state and leave it as clean as it was when you arrived. For any uncertainties, speak to your landlord to understand their definition of “clean” and their expectations. 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
It’s usual for tenants to leave unwanted personal items in a rental home. It’s not much harder to put your unwanted items at the curb or take them to a thrift store. Furthermore, leaving your possessions behind will probably result in cleanup charges from the landlord. Thus, you’ll get a smaller portion of your security deposit back.
Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile
In the frenzy of moving out, the temptation to do minimal cleaning and cut corners can be strong. Although this might be acceptable in some cases, it often results in deductions from your security deposit for cleaning and repairs. When you can, set aside extra time to go over some specifics. Fill nail holes with drywall putty, and make sure interior windows are clean, and blinds and ceiling fans are dusted.
By using these move-out cleaning tips, you’ll give your landlord little reason to complain and no excuse to deduct from your security deposit for cleanliness.
Looking for a new rental in Marlborough or nearby? Real Property Management MetroWest-Worcester has an ideal home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 508-329-6000.
Originally Published on August 28, 2020
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