If you are the same way as practically all renters, you want to get your security deposit back as soon as you move out. But did you know that one of the primary approaches to establishing you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the top reasons Wake Forest property managers withhold security deposit funds to start with. So it is reasonable to work to slash down the number of potential repairs that will need to be completed after you move out. You can strive to develop some habits as a renter to always make certain that you leave the property in top condition and, more than anything, that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.
Document Everything
Getting your security deposit back clearly starts before you move into your new rental home! This is because the condition of the house before you move is not technically your responsibility, but take note, if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to place blame on you. Precisely why, before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. Several landlords usually give out a walk-through checklist, which you should fill out and keep a copy of. But, even if they don’t, make notes in connection with any existing damage, regardless of how small, and potential repair and maintenance items. Over and above that, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does occur, this will be pretty solid evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the salient things you can do to always make sure you get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home routinely. The longer you stay in a home, the more important it will be to keep up with your cleaning regimen. Allowing that surface cleaning will keep a majority of the grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are critical 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 realizing basic appliance maintenance. Also, take care to clear hair from drains, change light bulbs, and dust blinds and ceiling fans. Completing these tasks consistently will help guarantee your landlord doesn’t withhold any amount of your security deposit for cleaning after you’re gone.
Decorate with Care
Another way to up your chances of getting your full security deposit back is to be doubly careful when you decorate your rental home. Making several holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can cause more pricey repairs after moving out, all of which you will be held responsible for. Instead of applying nails or screws to hang up your décor items, it’s better to have recourse to using non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of differing weights and sizes and types can be removed without damaging the wall.
Try using coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other huge items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is generally common and quite expensive to repair. But certainly, by planning and having the right supplies, you can easily 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 pertinent to do whatever you possibly can to minimize any damage they may create. Both children and pets can be troublesome on a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which specifies taking specific extra precautions. You might think about pushing furniture or other items against the walls to secure them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and afford a soft place for your little ones to delight in. Or, it may be practical to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to quite a few rooms. Put to use quality cleaning materials, like magic erasers to eliminate scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
One final matter to think about, it’s necessary to communicate frequently and openly with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues are developing fast in the home, but in actuality, it’s smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can tackle them there and then. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help inhibit major repairs in time. Also, remember, any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; but certainly during your lease, the landlord typically pays for repairs while you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better really make sure you will get your full security deposit back after moving out.
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Originally Published on April 16, 2021
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