If you are similar to the majority of renters, you desire to get your security deposit back in full by the time you move out. But really, did you apprehend that one of the principal practices to always ensure you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the major reasons Belleview property managers withhold security deposit funds more than anything. So it holds up to bring down the number of potential repairs that will need to be worked on after you move out. You can develop certain habits as a renter to guarantee that you leave the property in sound condition and that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.
Document Everything
Getting your security deposit back unquestionably 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, if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to pin the blame on you. That’s why, before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. Some landlords will offer a walk-through checklist, which you should fill out and keep a copy of. But still, even if they don’t, make notes as concerns any existing damage, even though how small, and potential repair and maintenance items. Take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does happen, this will be convincing evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the beneficial things you can do to always guarantee that 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. While it is true that surface cleaning will keep much of the grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are a necessity 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. On top of that, be mindful to clear hair from drains, change light bulbs, and dust blinds and ceiling fans. Performing these tasks typically will help make certain your landlord doesn’t withhold any amount of your security deposit for cleaning after you’re gone.
Decorate with Care
Another approach to boost your chances of getting your full security deposit back is to be doubly careful when you decorate your rental home. Making a whole lot of holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can elicit more pricey repairs after moving out, all of which you will be held responsible for. Instead of using nails or screws to hang up your décor items, it’s better to put into use non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of varied weights and sizes and normally can be removed without damaging the wall.
Consider utilizing coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other massive items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is sadly common and quite expensive to repair. Even so, by planning and having the appropriate supplies, you can effectively avoid gouging or scraping floors or tearing carpets when moving furniture around.
Minimize Damage
If you have kids or pets living in your rental with you, it’s relevant to do what you possibly can to minimize any damage they may make. Both children and pets can be careless regarding a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which indicates taking several extra precautions. You might consider setting up your furniture or other items against the walls to shelter them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and provide a soft place for your little ones to have fun playing on. Or, it may be helpful to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to only certain rooms. Have recourse to quality cleaning materials, similar to magic erasers to clear out scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
One last thing to note, it’s focal to communicate consistently and openly with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues come up in the home, but as a matter of fact, it’s smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can work on them easily. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help ward off major repairs much later on. Also always remember, that any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; but certainly, during your lease, the landlord commonly pays for repairs since you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better nail down that you will get your full security deposit back after moving out.
Have you decided to move? Real Property Management Diversified can truly help! Contact us today or check out our listings online.
Originally Published on April 16, 2021
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