If you are after the fashion of various renters, you long to get your security deposit back if when you move out. However, did you know that one of the great processes to see to it you do, is good property maintenance? Property repairs are among the prime causes West Allis property managers to withhold security deposit funds principally. So it makes good sense to minimize the number of potential repairs that will need to be dealt with after you move out. You can also practice a bunch of habits as a renter to determine that you leave the property in prime condition and, chiefly, that you will get your security deposit refunded in full.
Document Everything
Getting your security deposit back actually 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, with that said, if there is no record of pre-existing damage, your landlord may be able to easily blame you. This is why, before you move in, you should walk slowly through every room of your new home and document every aspect of its condition. The majority of landlords will provide a walk-through checklist, which you should fill out and keep a copy of. Nonetheless, even if they don’t, make notes on any existing damage, without any regard for how small or big, and potential repair and maintenance items. Moreover, take photos of everything in your notes! If a dispute does come into being, this will be solid evidence to support your case.
Regular Deep Cleaning
One of the imperative things you can do to safeguard you get your security deposit back is to clean your rental home consistently. The longer you stay in a home, the more important it will be to keep up with your cleaning regimen. Whereas surface cleaning will keep a whole lot of grime at bay in the short term, regular deep cleanings are important 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 working on basic appliance maintenance. Similarly, do not forget to clear hair from drains, change light bulbs, and dust blinds and ceiling fans. Working on these tasks customarily will help always make certain your landlord doesn’t withhold any part of your security deposit for cleaning after you’re moved out.
Decorate with Care
Another step to lift your chances of getting your full security deposit back is to be especially careful when you decorate your rental home. Making various holes in the walls or making other permanent changes to the property can create more expensive repairs after moving out, all of which you will be held responsible for. Instead of applying nails or screws to hang up your décor items, it’s better to make use of non-marking, removable fasteners. These hooks can hold items of varied weights and sizes and customarily can be removed without damaging the wall.
Try to use coasters or pads underneath table legs, couches, and other big items to protect your floors while moving furniture in or out. Floor damage is really common and ultra-expensive to repair. But, by planning and having the right supplies, you can effectively prevent 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 integral to do as much as you possibly can to minimize any damage they may cause. Both children and pets can be demanding on a home’s painted walls and other surfaces, which means taking just a few extra precautions. You might think of moving furniture or other items against the walls to defend them from scrapes, scratches, and stains. Rugs can help protect floors and render a soft place for your little ones to play. Or, it may be favorable to designate certain areas of the house for pets or playtime so that any damage to walls or floors is limited to just a few rooms. Put into use quality cleaning materials, by way of example, magic erasers, to clean out scuffs and rogue scribbles.
Communication is Key
One last matter on hand, it’s pivotal to communicate consistently and directly with your landlord. It may seem counterintuitive to alert your landlord when maintenance issues are happening in the home, yet it’s absolutely smart. When you tell your landlord about maintenance issues early on, they can easily and swiftly take care of them. Performing maintenance or minor repairs can help dodge major repairs thereafter. Also always remember, that any damage noticed after you move out is your responsibility; but on the other hand, during your lease, the landlord normally pays for repairs while you still live in the home. By reporting maintenance issues, you can better warrant you will get your entire security deposit back after moving out.
Are you seriously planning to move? Real Property Management Greater Milwaukee can help! Contact us today or check out our listings online.
Originally Published on April 16, 2021
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