If you are just like all renters, you always want to get your security deposit back if you move out. With that said, are you informed that one of the necessary measures to ensure that you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the key reasons Mission Valley property managers withhold security deposit funds first of all. So it is a good idea to lessen the number of potential repairs that will need to be accomplished after you move out. But certainly, you can develop useful habits as a renter to guarantee that you leave the property in great condition and, most importantly, that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.
Document Everything
Getting your security deposit back absolutely starts before you move into your new rental home! This is since the condition of the house before you move is not technically your responsibility, nonetheless, if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to assign blame to you. Hence, before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. A large number of landlords will present a walk-through checklist, which you should unquestionably fill out and keep a copy of. Moreover, even if they don’t, make notes as to any existing damage, regardless of how small, and potential repair and maintenance items. Particularly, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does take place, this will be sufficient evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the primary things you can do to ensure you get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home often. The longer you stay in a home, the more important it will be to keep up with your cleaning regimen. Even while surface cleaning will keep the majority of the 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 cover scrubbing grout, wiping down kitchen cabinets and ceiling fans, cleaning appliances (fridge, oven, microwave, and dishwasher), and executing basic appliance maintenance. Moreover, take into account clearing hair from drains, changing light bulbs, and dusting blinds and ceiling fans. Executing these tasks often will help see to it your landlord doesn’t withhold a large part of your security deposit for cleaning after you’re gone.
Decorate with Care
Another technique to heighten your chances of getting your entire security deposit back is to be especially careful when you decorate your rental home. Making multiple holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can bring on more 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 utilize non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of variable weights and sizes and usually can be removed without damaging the wall.
Try using coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other weighty items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is prevalent and quite costly to repair. With that said, 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 vital to do everything that you can to minimize any damage they may inadvertently cause. Both children and pets can be tough on a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which points out to take some extra precautions. You might examine positioning furniture or other items against the walls to preserve them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and lend a soft place for your little ones to just enjoy. Or, it may be practical to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to one or a few rooms. Make sure to use quality cleaning materials, like magic erasers to do away with scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
At length, it’s principal to communicate oftentimes and openly with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues are showing up in the home, but be that as it may, it’s smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can acknowledge and deal with them quickly. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help avoid major repairs subsequently. On top of that, any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; nevertheless, during your lease, the landlord generally pays for repairs since you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better guarantee you will get your whole security deposit back after moving out.
Are you deciding to move? Real Property Management Realevate Specialists can help! Contact us today or check out our listings online.
Originally Published on April 16, 2021
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