Securing the return of your deposit might seem tough, but with the right strategy, it’s completely doable. Moving out of either an apartment or a rental home, keeping the place clean is vital for a full refund of your deposit.
Landlords often require a pristine property for a full deposit refund, which can be difficult. In this piece, we’ll give you crucial cleaning tips and strategies to leave your rental looking fantastic, impress your landlord, and increase your likelihood of a hassle-free deposit return.
Tip #1: Read Your Lease
It’s unlikely that you consider your lease a primary source for cleaning tips. Though, as a renter, the lease documents and addenda likely detail your landlord’s expectations. Typically, your lease will provide answers to whether carpets need professional cleaning, which parts will be inspected, and so forth.
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. Even if you didn’t receive one from your landlord, there are plenty of detailed cleaning checklists online. Employing a checklist during cleaning is vital to ensure nothing is overlooked, both indoors and outdoors. 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
A great way to ensure you receive your full security deposit is to think like your landlord. Recall how the property looked when you moved in and strive to leave it just as clean. 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
Many tenants tend to abandon items they no longer need or want in a rental house. But it’s hardly any extra effort to bring your unwanted belongings to the curb or a thrift shop. Also, if you leave your stuff, the landlord is likely to charge you for its removal and cleanup. Therefore, you will receive a reduced amount of your security deposit.
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 feasible, take a bit more time to examine some details. For instance, fill nail holes with drywall putty and ensure interior windows are cleaned, blinds are dusted, and ceiling fans are wiped down.
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.
Are you in the market for a new rental in Bainbridge or close by? Real Property Management Valor Team offers the perfect home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 440-534-6700.
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