If you are very much like almost every other renter, you want to get your security deposit back eventually when you move out. Nonetheless, did you realize that one of the crucial ways to make certain you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the major causes of Pasadena property managers withholding security deposit funds. So it holds true to cut down the number of potential repairs that will need to be settled after you move out. You can start practicing different habits as a renter to nail down that you leave the property in satisfactory condition and, most of 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! The reason is that the condition of the house before you move is not technically your responsibility, still, if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to lay the blame on you. For that very reason, before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. Most landlords will provide a walk-through checklist, which you should fill out and keep a copy of. But on the other hand, even if they don’t, make notes about any existing damage, heedless of how small, and potential repair and maintenance items. Indeed, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does come up, this will be evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the weighty things you can do to always see to it you get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home quite regularly. The longer you stay in a home, the more important it will be to keep up with your cleaning regimen. While it is a matter of fact that surface cleaning will keep lots of grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are indispensable if you plan to stay in your rental home long-term. Deep cleaning should involve scrubbing grout, wiping down kitchen cabinets and ceiling fans, cleaning appliances (fridge, oven, microwave, and dishwasher), and fulfilling basic appliance maintenance. Likewise, make sure to clear hair from drains, change light bulbs, and dust blinds and ceiling fans regularly. Fulfilling these tasks normally will help make certain your landlord doesn’t withhold a portion of your security deposit for cleaning after you’re gone.
Decorate with Care
Another practice that will add to your chances of getting the whole security deposit back is to be careful when you decorate your rental home. Making a lot of holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can bring in more costly repairs after moving out, all of which you will be held responsible for. Instead of putting in nails or screws to hang up your décor items, it’s better to administer non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of various weights and sizes and generally can be removed without damaging the wall.
Try making use of coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other bulky items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is typically common and very expensive to repair. Nonetheless, by planning and having the appropriate 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 critical to do everything you think possible to minimize any damage they may contribute. Both children and pets can be tedious on a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which involves taking some extra precautions. You can try putting furniture or other items against the walls to protect them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and offer a soft place for your little ones to want to play on. Or, it may be valuable to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to specific rooms. Always use quality cleaning materials, such as magic erasers to remove scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
One last note, it’s very important to communicate regularly and genuinely with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues are appearing in the home, but actually, it’s really smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can work on them quickly. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help prevent major repairs down the line. Also, take note, that any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; but most importantly, during your lease, the landlord customarily pays for repairs while you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better see to it you will get your total security deposit back after moving out.
Planning to move? Real Property Management Fairmate can surely help! Contact us today or check out our listings online.
Originally Published on April 16, 2021
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