If you are like countless renters, you are looking forward to getting your security deposit back once you move out. But, did you take into consideration that one of the key methods to guarantee you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the underlying causes Windermere property managers withhold security deposit funds. So it is a very good idea to diminish the number of potential repairs that will need to be fulfilled after you move out. You can, however, develop helpful habits as a renter to make sure that you leave the property in tip-top condition and, above all, that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.
Document Everything
Getting your security deposit back starts before you move into your new rental home! Because of that, the condition of the house before you move is not technically your responsibility, except, that if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to shift the blame to you. As such, 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 a walk-through checklist, which you should carefully fill out as well as keep a copy of. That being said, even if they don’t, make notes as regards any existing damage, no matter how small, and potential repair and maintenance items. Additionally, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does pop up, this will be compelling evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the vital things you can do to guarantee you get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home fairly regularly. The longer you stay in a home, the more important it will be to keep up with your cleaning regimen. Even though surface cleaning will keep almost all of the grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are unavoidable 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 undertaking basic appliance maintenance. In particular, also include clearing hair from drains, changing light bulbs, and dusting blinds and ceiling fans. Undertaking these tasks steadily and regularly will help always ensure your landlord doesn’t withhold even a fraction of your security deposit for cleaning after you’ve moved.
Decorate with Care
Another way to increase your chances of getting your entire security deposit back is to be careful when you decorate your rental home. Creating various 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 making use of nails or screws to hang up your décor items, it’s better to apply non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of diverse weights and sizes and normally can be easily removed without damaging the wall.
Also use coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other huge items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is really common and also very expensive to repair. By planning and using the appropriate supplies, you can effectively 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 crucial to do whatever is possible to minimize any damage they may cause. Both children and pets can be hard on a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which means taking extra precautions. You can try to place 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 enjoy playing on them. 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 just a small number of rooms. Apply quality cleaning materials, for instance, magic erasers to remove scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
On the last note, it’s beneficial to communicate frankly and regularly with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues are occurring in the home, but actually, it’s smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can react and deal with them rapidly. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help prevent major repairs at a later time. Also, keep in mind, that any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; with that said, during your lease, the landlord ordinarily pays for repairs while you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better make certain you will get your whole security deposit back after moving out.
Are you decided to move? Real Property Management South Orlando is sure glad to help! Contact us today or check out our listings online.
Originally Published on April 16, 2021
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