If you are in the same vein as most renters, you certainly want to get your security deposit back when you move out. However, did you take into account that one of the basic ways to ensure you do get it, is through good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the underlying reasons Lawrenceville property managers withhold security deposit funds to start with. So it’s for a good reason to lessen the number of potential repairs that will need to be accomplished after you move out. You can certainly develop helpful habits as a renter to effectively make sure that you leave the property in proper condition and that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.
Document Everything
Getting your security deposit back basically starts before you move into your new rental home! The reason for this is that the condition of the house before you move is not technically your responsibility, then again, if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to assign blame to you. Given this, before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. Most landlords will give a walk-through checklist, which you should fill out and keep a copy of. Yet, even if they don’t, make notes on the matter of any existing damage, without regard to how small, and potential repair and maintenance items. Also, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does ensue, this will be justifiable evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the essential things you can do to guarantee you get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home habitually. The longer you stay in a home, the more important it will be to keep up with your cleaning regimen. Even supposing surface cleaning will keep nearly all of the grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are fundamental if you plan to stay in your rental home long-term. Deep cleaning should include scrubbing grout, wiping down kitchen cabinets and ceiling fans, cleaning appliances (fridge, oven, microwave, and dishwasher), and doing basic appliance maintenance. Likewise, don’t forget to clear hair from drains, change light bulbs, and dust blinds and ceiling fans. Running these tasks regularly will help make certain your landlord doesn’t withhold any part of your security deposit for cleaning after you’ve moved out.
Decorate with Care
Another way to develop your chances of getting your entire security deposit back is to be very careful when you decorate your rental home. Making many holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can induce more expensive repairs after moving out, all of which you will be held responsible for. Instead of opting to use nails or screws to hang up your décor items, it’s better to use non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of variable weights and sizes and often can be removed without damaging the wall.
Make sure to use coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other huge items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is quite common and sadly expensive to repair. However, by planning and having the right supplies, you can happily avoid gouging or scraping floors, or tearing carpet when moving furniture around.
Minimize Damage
If you have kids or pets living in your rental with you, it’s important to do as much as you possibly can to minimize any damage they may stir up. Both children and pets can be tough on a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which means taking extra precautions. You might simply try having furniture or other items against the walls to safeguard them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and offer a soft place for your little ones to enjoy. Or, it may be good to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to those few rooms. Employ quality cleaning materials and magic erasers, to clean up scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
The last important point to consider, it’s pertinent to communicate quite openly and consistently with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues are occurring in the home, nevertheless, it’s pretty smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can address them without delay. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help sidestep major repairs subsequently in the future. Also, consider that any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; be that as it may, during your lease, the landlord frequently pays for repairs while it is true that you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better make sure you will get your whole security deposit back after moving out.
Are you seriously planning to move? Real Property Management Executives Greater Atlanta can surely help! Contact us today or check out our listings online.
Originally Published on April 16, 2021
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