Recovering your security deposit can seem daunting, but rest assured, it’s entirely possible with the correct method. 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. Still, as a renter, your lease documents and any addenda often include what your landlord expects. Often, the lease will answer questions about professional carpet cleaning, inspection areas, 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. Yet, if your landlord did not offer one, numerous detailed cleaning checklists can be found online. A cleaning checklist is essential to ensure you don’t forget any tasks, inside or in the yard. Even overlooked minor cleaning tasks could result in considerable deductions from your deposit, making the effort worthwhile.
Tip #3: Think Like a Landlord
To get your full security deposit back, imagine being in your landlord’s position. Think back to the state of the property when you first arrived and try to match that cleanliness upon leaving. If unsure, consult your landlord to clarify their standards for “clean” and their expectations. Keep in mind that the next occupant will expect cleanliness, so leave the property as you would want it if you were moving in.
Tip #4: Don’t Leave Stuff Behind
Tenants commonly leave their unwanted belongings in rental properties. However, it takes little extra effort to move your unwanted items to the curb or donate them to a thrift store. If you leave your belongings on the property, the landlord will probably charge you for removing them. Consequently, your security deposit refund will be reduced.
Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile
While moving out, it might be tempting to clean as little as possible and cut corners. Although this might work occasionally, it usually results in security deposit deductions for cleaning and repairs. If you’re able, give yourself a bit more time to review certain details. Fill nail holes with drywall putty, and make sure interior windows are clean, and blinds and ceiling fans are dusted.
Adhering to these move-out cleaning tips will leave your landlord with little to complain about and no reason to withhold any of your security deposit for cleanliness.
Searching for a new rental in Fort Worth or the surrounding vicinity? Real Property Management Trailhead has an ideal home for you. Browse our listings or call us at 817-930-1160.
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