When preparing to move out of a rental property, a key concern is the return of your security deposit. Unlike other upfront costs for renting an apartment, security deposits are refundable. As you receive it back upon moving out (often after spending a good amount on your new place), the money comes back at a critical time. However, the process of getting back your security deposit can be complex. Landlords may have grounds to keep some or all of it, leading to tenant frustration and financial stress. Security deposits are utilized by landlords and property managers to cover any post-tenant unit damage. While normal wear and tear is expected, any significant damage and repairs will be deducted from your security deposit after you move out.
This guide covers the key steps and tactics to help you secure the full return of your security deposit. From knowing your tenant rights to accurately documenting the property's condition, we offer practical advice to navigate this often stressful situation confidently. Whether you're leaving your first apartment or have years of renting experience, mastering these strategies can greatly improve your chances of getting your deposit back.
Before You Sign the Lease
Securing the return of your security deposit begins long before you move out of the rental property. In fact, it starts before you even sign the lease agreement. Before putting pen to paper, carefully review the terms of the lease agreement. Make sure you understand your lease because if you don’t understand it or don’t read it, you have no way of knowing if you’ve met the conditions of your lease when you move out. Be sure to ask questions. Sometimes, property managers will charge you for damage “beyond normal wear and tear.” What is that, exactly? Does it include any damage caused by your pet? Scratches on the door, for example? Write down any questions you have while reading the lease, and then review those questions with the property manager. Also, be sure to pay close attention to clauses related to the security deposit, including how much is required, under what conditions it can be withheld, and the procedures for its return. Understanding your rights and obligations from the outset can further prevent misunderstandings later. After you have thoroughly reviewed the lease, it’s time to sign it.
Do a Walkthrough Before Moving In
Now that you've signed the lease, it's time to step into your new home officially. But before you start unpacking those boxes, there's an important task to complete—a thorough walkthrough of your new space. Start by giving each room a good once-over, checking for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Remember, it's not just about the big things—small details matter, too. Look out for chipped paint, loose floorboards, or leaky faucets. You might be given a checklist by the property manager prior to moving in to document any issues. If not, you can create your own. Here are some things to note on your checklist:
- Scratches on the wood floors/floorboards
- Discoloration or marks on the walls
- Chipped paint or holes in the walls
- Stains on the carpet
- Blinds that are broken or don’t work
- Windows that don’t open
- Chips or cracks in the windows
- Outlets – location, number, and if they work
- Any problems with the locks/security system
- Location of smoke detectors and if they’re working
- Lack of water pressure/toilets not flushing
- Cracks in tile
- Loose sink fixtures
- Any signs of mold, mildew
- Signs of pests (look under the sink and in the closets)
Look closely at everything and note anything that isn’t in top condition. Take photos of any issues and include those with your completed checklist. Document everything. Yes, that tiny scratch on the kitchen counter might seem insignificant now, but it could be a point of contention when you're moving out. Once you've completed your walkthrough, it's time to bring your landlord into the loop. Share your findings with them, and make sure they acknowledge any pre-existing damage. It's a good idea to get this in writing, whether in an email or a signed document. That way, you're safeguarding your interests and ensuring that you won't be held responsible for any damage you didn't cause.
What to Do Before Moving Out of Your Rental Property
Before you move out of your rental property, there are a few things you should do to ensure you receive your full security deposit. Below are some tips to guide you through the process smoothly and efficiently.
Make Sure You Don't Owe Anything
Before you move out of your rental property, it's essential to ensure that you've fulfilled all your financial obligations to the landlord or property management company. Are you current on your rent? If not, this could jeopardize you getting your security deposit back. The security deposit isn’t your last month’s rent payment. Your security deposit covers any damages or cleaning fees and is completely separate from rent. You may have paid the first and last months’ rent when you moved in. Be sure to check your lease to make sure that the final payment is covered.
Make Sure You Give Proper Notice
Giving proper notice to your landlord or property management company is a crucial step in the process of moving out and ensuring the return of your security deposit. The amount of notification time required for move-out should be stated in your lease, and it varies. If your apartment community requires 30 days’ notice and you tell them you are moving in a week, the short notice may be considered a violation of your lease agreement, and you may not get your security deposit back. Even if your lease is up, you’ll need to notify the apartment community in advance, so your lease isn’t automatically renewed. Be sure to verify how much notice is required and write a notice to vacate letter within the time frame stated in your lease.
Clean Your Apartment
Cleaning your apartment thoroughly before moving out is not only a courteous gesture but also can help you with the full return of your security deposit. Campers will be familiar with the adage “Leave No Trace,” and these rules apply to your apartment when moving out, as well. Scrub it, then scrub it some more. Take a top-to-bottom approach (fan blades and plant shelves, too). The closer you can get it to how you found it, the better. Clean as you clear each room, then go back for one final cleaning once the apartment is completely empty.
Use this cleaning checklist:
- Clean all appliances
- Wipe down kitchen cabinets and pantry shelves
- Clean the kitchen sink and countertops
- Remove any grease or dust from the overhead light and range hood
- Clean behind and the top of the fridge
- Clean the tub, shower, toilet, and sink
- Wipe down the bathroom vanity and clean the mirrors
- Vacuum and mop the floor
Schedule a Move-Out Inspection
After you have cleaned your rental property from top to bottom, it’s time to schedule a move-out inspection with your landlord or property manager. This inspection serves as an opportunity to review the condition of the apartment and address any potential issues that may affect the return of your security deposit. To schedule a move-out inspection, you email or call your landlord or property manager. Propose a few different dates and times for the inspection. This shows your flexibility and willingness to cooperate, which your landlord will surely appreciate.
Once you've got the inspection scheduled, it's time to prepare. You've already done a thorough cleanup, but it doesn't hurt to do a quick once-over before the inspection. Check that all appliances are in working order and that there are no outstanding repairs needed.
When the day of the inspection arrives, greet your landlord and guide them through the property. Be open to feedback and ready to discuss any potential issues. Remember, it's a conversation, not a confrontation.
Scheduling a move-out inspection might seem like just another task on your to-do list, but it's worth it. It's your chance to demonstrate the care you've taken of the property, and it's a crucial step towards getting your full security deposit back.
Make a Move-Out Checklist
Between packing boxes, transferring utilities, and signing paperwork at your new place, you have a lot going on right now and it might be easy to forget an important step (like making sure your old landlord has your new address). Once you’ve made the decision to move rather than renew, here are some things you need to do:
- Check your lease to see how much notice you have to give your landlord (usually 30 days)
- Return your keys along with a parking pass (if provided with one)
- Write your notice to vacate letter within the required timeframe
- Make sure the landlord has your new address (so he can send your check)
Be sure to keep an open line of communication with your landlord or property manager before, during, and after your move. Remember: you want the apartment as close to its original move-in condition as possible.
Getting your full security deposit back might seem like a daunting task, but with a bit of planning and effort, it's totally within your reach. So, roll up your sleeves, put these tips into action, and look forward to that security deposit returning to you. Happy moving!
