If you are much the same as many renters, you want to get your security deposit back if you move out. Though, did you know that one of the beneficial procedures to ensure you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the prime reasons Seattle property managers withhold security deposit funds. So it rings true to cut down the number of potential repairs that will need to be done after you move out. You can likewise develop some useful habits as a renter to always make sure that you leave the property in prime condition and, first and foremost, that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.
Document Everything
Getting your security deposit back essentially starts before you move into your new rental home! That is because the condition of the house before you move is not technically your responsibility, at the same time, if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to lay the blame on you. This is the reason that before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. Nearly all landlords will give you a walk-through checklist, which you should fill out and keep a copy of. Still, even if they don’t, make notes regarding any existing damage, makes no difference how small, and potential repair and maintenance items. Likewise, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does happen, this will be substantial evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the relevant things you can do to nail down and get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home regularly. The longer you stay in a home, the more important it will be to keep up with your cleaning regimen. Much as surface cleaning will keep almost every grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are necessary 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. Also, take care to clear hair from drains, change light bulbs, and dust blinds and ceiling fans. Acting on these tasks regularly will help ensure your landlord doesn’t withhold any portion of your security deposit for cleaning after you’re gone.
Decorate with Care
Another activity to raise your chances of getting your whole security deposit back is to be particularly careful when you decorate your rental home. Making more holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can be the cause of more really expensive repairs after moving out, all of which you will be held responsible for. Instead of administering nails or screws to hang up your décor items, it’s better to use non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of various weights and sizes and can naturally be removed without damaging the wall.
Evaluate making use of coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other large items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is quite common and excessive to repair. Though by planning and having the correct supplies, you can avoid 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 ideal to do whatever you can to minimize any damage they may create. Both children and pets can be wasteful on a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which explains taking one or several extra precautions. You might try pushing up furniture or other items against the walls to protect them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and furnish a soft place for your little ones to enjoy playing on. Or, it may be appropriate to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to very few rooms. Also, use quality cleaning materials, take one example, magic erasers to take out scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
One last important matter to consider, it’s really helpful to communicate often and properly with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues are suddenly happening in the home, but then again, it’s smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can think of answers and apply solutions for them soonest. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help avoid major repairs down the line. In addition, any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; but on the flip side, during your lease, the landlord oftentimes pays for repairs while you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better warrant you will get your whole security deposit back after moving out.
Wanting to move? Real Property Management Eclipse can help! Contact us today or check out our listings online.
Originally Published on April 16, 2021
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
