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Tips for Getting Your Full Security Deposit Back

A man and woman tidying a room filled with boxes, organizing, and cleaning the space together.Recovering your security deposit can seem daunting, but rest assured, it’s entirely possible with the correct method. Moving out of either an apartment or a rental home, keeping the place clean is vital for a full refund of your deposit.

Typically, landlords want a spotless rental for returning the full deposit, which can be challenging. Here, we’ll share vital cleaning tips and strategies so you can leave your rental in great shape, wow your landlord, and improve your odds of getting your deposit back effortlessly.

Tip #1: Read Your Lease

You probably don’t think of your lease as the go-to for cleaning advice. Nevertheless, as a renter, your lease agreement and any addenda likely outline your landlord’s expectations. Commonly, answers to whether carpets need professional cleaning, which areas will be inspected, and similar questions are in the lease.

Tip #2: Get (and Use) A Move-Out Checklist

Trustworthy landlords often provide a move-out checklist to tenants around the time they give notice of leaving. However, if your landlord did not provide one, you can easily find comprehensive cleaning checklists online. Relying on a checklist as you clean is key to making sure you don’t neglect anything inside or outside. Minor cleaning tasks left undone might result in major deductions from your security deposit, so the effort is justified.

Tip #3: Think Like a Landlord

To reclaim your entire security deposit, adopt your landlord’s viewpoint. Recall how the property looked when you moved in and strive to leave it just as clean. If you need clarification, ask your landlord what they consider “clean” and what they expect. Also, consider that the next tenant will appreciate a clean house, so leave it as you would like to find it.

Tip #4: Don’t Leave Stuff Behind

Leaving behind personal items in a rental home is a frequent occurrence among tenants. Nonetheless, taking your unwanted junk to the curb or a thrift store requires minimal effort. Moreover, if you abandon your belongings, the landlord will likely bill you for their disposal. Therefore, you will receive a reduced amount of your security deposit.

Tip #5: Go the Extra Mile

Amid the hustle of moving out, it can be tempting to skimp on cleaning and cut corners. This approach might sometimes be sufficient, but usually, it leads to security deposit deductions for cleaning and repairs. If you’re able, give yourself a bit more time to review certain details. For example, patch nail holes with drywall putty and check that interior windows are clean, and blinds and ceiling fans are dusted.

Adhering to these move-out cleaning tips will leave your landlord with little to complain about and no reason to withhold any of your security deposit for cleanliness.

Are you searching for a new rental in Springfield or the surrounding area? Real Property Management Momentum has an ideal home for you. Browse our listings or give us a call at 417-324-7601.

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