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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.While getting your security deposit back may appear challenging, it’s fully achievable with the proper approach. Whether vacating an apartment or a rental property, keeping it spotless is crucial for receiving your full deposit.

Most landlords look for a perfectly clean place to give back the full deposit, which can be hard to achieve. 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

The lease agreement may not be where you’d first look for cleaning advice. Yet, as a renter, your lease paperwork (including addenda) probably has details on 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

Responsible landlords often send a move-out checklist to tenants when they announce they are leaving. However, if your landlord did not provide one, you can easily find comprehensive cleaning checklists online. A cleaning checklist is essential to ensure you don’t forget any tasks, inside or in the yard. Missing even minor cleaning tasks can lead to substantial deductions from your security deposit, so it’s worth the effort.

Tip #3: Think Like a Landlord

A great way to ensure you receive your full security deposit is to think like your landlord. Reflect on the property’s original cleanliness and ensure it looks the same when you move out. If you have any queries, ask your landlord to explain their idea of “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

Leaving behind personal items in a rental home is a frequent occurrence among tenants. It’s not much harder to put your unwanted items at the curb or take them to a thrift store. If you leave your belongings on the property, the landlord will probably charge you for removing them. This means you’ll receive a smaller security deposit refund.

Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile

In the rush of moving out, you might be tempted to minimize cleaning and cut corners. While this may be effective in rare cases, it typically causes deductions from your security deposit for cleaning and repairs. If you can, dedicate a little more time to look over some 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.

Looking for a new rental in Alpharetta or nearby? Real Property Management North Point provides the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 404-905-9455.

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