If you are like a lot of renters, you are expecting to get your security deposit back as you move out. But have you stopped and thought that one of the basic practices to ascertain what you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the prominent causes Woodlands property managers withhold security deposit funds particularly. So it is understandable to lower the number of potential repairs that will need to be done after you move out. You can also try to develop practical habits as a renter to make sure that you leave the property in more than decent condition and, most of all, that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.
Document Everything
Getting your security deposit back basically starts before you move into your new rental home! The reason is that the condition of the house before you move is not technically your responsibility, but be aware that if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to pin blame on you. Exactly why, before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. The majority of landlords will give you a walk-through checklist, which you should fill out and keep a copy of. Although even if they don’t, make notes regarding any existing damage, irrespective of how small, and potential repair and maintenance items are. On top of everything else, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does turn up, this will be ample evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the principal things you can do to ascertain you get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home constantly. The longer you stay in a home, the more important it will be to keep up with your cleaning regimen. Granting that surface cleaning will keep most of the grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are really necessary if you plan to stay in your rental home long-term. Deep cleaning should certainly include scrubbing grout, wiping down kitchen cabinets and ceiling fans, cleaning appliances (fridge, oven, microwave, and dishwasher), and doing basic appliance maintenance. Also make sure to clear hair from drains, change light bulbs, and dust blinds and ceiling fans. Doing these tasks, as scheduled and regularly, will help guarantee your landlord doesn’t withhold even just a bit of your security deposit for cleaning after you’ve transferred.
Decorate with Care
Another undertaking to increase your chances of getting your whole security deposit back is to be careful when you decorate your rental home. Making several holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can cause more expensive 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 opt for using non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of varying weights and sizes and most often can be easily removed without damaging the wall.
Think about utilizing coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other heavy items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is really common and indeed very expensive to repair. But certainly, by planning and having the right supplies on hand, you can easily prevent 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 beneficial to do as much as you possibly can to minimize any damage they may cause. Both children and pets can be hard on a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which specifies taking one or more extra precautions. You might take into consideration pushing furniture or other items against the walls to keep them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and provide a soft place for your little ones to delight in. Or, you may choose to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to particular rooms. Work with quality cleaning materials, that is to say, for example, magic erasers to clean up scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
One final thought, it’s essential to communicate consistently and openly with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues are springing up in the home, but come to think of it, it’s pretty smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can work on them as soon as possible. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help keep off major repairs in the future. Besides, any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; but on the other hand, during your lease, the landlord generally pays for repairs because you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better see to it 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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