Understand what must be done to make it have your deposit refunded.
In general, the rule is: you’re not responsible for normal wear and tear.
But you’re also probably expected to leave the apartment in good condition.
Depending on the lease, this might mean the windows are cleaned, nail holes are filled, etc.
This is a pretty obvious tip, but it’s worth repeating: confirm you know your lease.
Know the Law
In general, laws seem to favor landlords over tenants.
But there are somerules that protect us.
For example, it’s illegal for yourlandlord to keep your deposit without an explanation.
Yet many renters accept this.
The laws vary by location, of course, so understand what your rights are.
Some of them can make your head spin.
confirm you’re not being overcharged for your security deposit.
And know the time frame limits on getting it back.
Check out thelimits and deadlines of your state.
Take it a step further and snap some photos for your own records.
Email your landlord any concerns you might have about pre-move-in conditions.
This way, you’ll have evidence should an issue arise.
Email your landlord, and keep a copy of that email.
Keeping records is important.
I once lived in an apartment with a bad bathtub paint job.
I took some photos, just in case.
Sure enough, when I moved out, the company charged me for damages to the tub.
I explained the paint issue and mentioned I had a series of photos.
They gave me my deposit without question.
Keep the Rental in Good Condition
Again, obvious, but worth repeating.
If you or a pet damages something in the unit, take care of it.
It might cost you.
But your own repair will probably be much less than the leasing company charges when you move out.
Just see to it tocommunicate these changesto see to it they’re not going to affect your security deposit.
Alsodocument your repairs and improvements.
Clean Thoroughly
Here’s a handycleaning checklist for move-out.
Putty over them smoothly.
Consider replacing the toilet seat if it looks “unsavory.”
Take out the shelving, drip pans and burners and clean those, too.
Take pictures of each room of your apartment, showing the move-out condition.
Send your landlord an email explaining what you’ve cleaned and repaired.
What If Your Landlord Won’t Return Your Deposit?
you’ve got the option to also send them a demand letter.
This is pretty much what it sounds likea letter demanding payment.
Copies of all relevant letters, emails and agreements.
The details of your demandsuch as the full deposit within ten days, Nolo says.
Citations of state security deposit law.
For more detail on how to write a demand letter, check out theirfull post on this topic.
If it comes down to it, you might consider taking the issue to small claims court.
Nolo explains:
Filing a small claim usually costs just $10 to $50.
But overall, your security deposit is probably a pretty large sum of money.
It’s worth a little extra work to ensure it’s refunded to you.
