If you are like most renters, you desire to get your security deposit back in case you move out. That being said, did you know that one of the important ways to guarantee you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the leading causes Sandy property managers withhold security deposit funds. So it makes a lot of sense to reduce the number of potential repairs that will need to be brought about after you move out. You can form several habits as a renter to secure that you leave the property in mint condition and, mainly, that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.
Document Everything
Getting your security deposit back certainly starts before you move into your new rental home! This has to do with the fact the condition of the house before you move is not technically your responsibility, however, if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to blame it on you. Accordingly, before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. A lot of landlords will offer a walk-through checklist, which you should fill out and keep a copy of. But even if they don’t, make notes as to any existing damage (it doesn’t matter how small) as well as potential repair and maintenance items. Specifically, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does appear, this will be excellent evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the critical things you can do to see to it you get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home often and 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 some of the grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are needed if you plan to stay in your rental home long-term. Deep cleaning should comprise scrubbing grout, wiping down kitchen cabinets and ceiling fans, cleaning appliances (fridge, oven, microwave, and dishwasher), and executing basic appliance maintenance. In like manner, bear in mind to clear hair from drains, change light bulbs, and dust blinds and ceiling fans. Completing these tasks regularly will help ensure your landlord doesn’t withhold a portion of your security deposit for cleaning after you’re gone.
Decorate with Care
Another way to ensure your chances of getting your entire security deposit back is to be extremely careful when you decorate your rental home. Making plenty of holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can create costly repairs after moving out, all of which you will be held responsible for. Instead of utilizing nails or screws to hang up your décor items, it’s better to make use of non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of different weights and sizes and commonly can be removed without damaging the wall.
Take into account using coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other heavy items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is rather common and exorbitant to repair. That being said, by planning and having the proper supplies, you can ward off 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 essential to do as much as you possibly can to minimize any damage they may carelessly cause. Both children and pets can be troublesome on a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which means taking several extra precautions. You might consider positioning furniture or other items against the walls to protect them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and provide a soft place for your little ones to enjoy. Or, it may be effective to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to one or several rooms. Try using quality cleaning materials, in particular, magic erasers to discard scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
One final thing, it’s important to communicate as often as possible and honestly with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues are showing up in the home, but at the same time, it’s smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can handle them quickly. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help prevent major repairs in the future. Also, take note, that any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; but on the other hand, during your lease, the landlord largely pays for repairs when you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better guarantee you will get your complete security deposit back after moving out.
Are you earnestly looking to move? Real Property Management Wasatch can help! Contact us today or check out our listings online.
Originally Published on April 16, 2021
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