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If you’re planning a move to a rental house or apartment, there are certain steps you need to take to make sure you get your security deposit returned in full when you move out. So, if you’re among those wondering how to get a security deposit back, take note: a little prep work at the beginning of your lease will most certainly pay off at the end.
First thing’s first: What is a security deposit…and do you get the security deposit back?
A security deposit is an amount of money (generally the same as one month’s rent) given to the leasing agent or owner to cover any damages incurred to the home. While the laws vary from state to state, landlords must return this money to you (sometimes with interest!) when you move out at the end of the lease term. However, if you don’t live up to your end of the deal, the landlord can and will use funds from the security deposit to pay for damages, cleaning, and even nonpayment of rent. Think of the security deposit as an insurance policy for the landlord.
Whether you’re moving into your first apartment or your 50th, you need to be completely informed about how to get your security deposit back, including the expectations you must meet during and after your tenancy. Typically, normal “wear and tear” of the home is acceptable, and renters are only required to leave the dwelling in “broom-swept” condition. The key is to agree with your landlord about what those somewhat vague definitions mean before you sign on the dotted line.
Scroll down to read our five expert tips to get your apartment security deposit back in full.
1. Read Your Lease Agreement
It can be tempting to simply scan your lease agreement before signing, especially if the landlord assures you it’s a “standard issue” lease. Don’t make that mistake. Take time with the lease document and read it closely. Pay particular attention to what your responsibilities will be – and what rules you have to follow – while you live there and when you move out.
With regards to the security deposit, make note of:
- The amount of time the landlord has to return the money to you after moving out (oftentimes it will be 30-60 days).
- Any addendums or special requirements, including having the carpets professionally cleaned or the walls painted at move-out.
- Whether or not the landlord will have to provide itemized receipts of any money taken from the security deposit.
- What policies are in place for pet and pet damage.
- If breaking the lease early means you’ll forfeit the entire security deposit.
As you read the lease, take note of questions to ask the landlord before signing. They should be able to provide clarification and might even be open to negotiating certain terms.
2. Take Photos When You Move In and Out
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When you move into a new rental, you’ll likely be given an apartment inventory and condition form. (If you’re not provided with one, you can create or download a version yourself.)
As you fill out the form, take pictures of the conditions – especially anywhere that has damage. Document holes in the walls or carpet, loose hinges, appliances that don’t work or are missing parts, chipped paint, cracked windows, etc. Email the photos with your inventory and condition form to your landlord and confirm that they received it.
Photos will also be helpful when you move out. Document the condition when you’re done deep cleaning the apartment. Use the photos as evidence if your landlord mistakenly tries to charge you for damage or neglect.
3. Give Proper Notice
When you decide to leave your rental unit, it is critical that you give proper notice. Because laws vary depending on which state you’re in, you need to do your research and reference back to your lease to understand your responsibilities – and make the best case for getting your security deposit returned.
One key question to ask before you sign anything is: Do you get the security deposit back if you break your lease? (This should be spelled out in your lease but it’s always good to get clarification.) Many landlords will keep your entire security deposit if you break the lease prior to the end-date. Others will return it in whole or partially if you’re able to successfully sub-let the apartment.
4. Deep Clean Your Apartment
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Even if your lease only requires you to leave the apartment empty and “broom-swept,” renters who move out successfully know that deep cleaning apartment rooms, appliances, and fixtures is a must. Below are five “quick win” areas to focus on:
Patch Holes
Raise your hand if you’ve hung artwork, shelves, or TVs on the wall. Those items leave holes (and sometimes anchors) behind that you need to fill in with spackle or putty. Once the patches have dried, sand them down and paint them the same color as the rest of the wall.
Repaint
Some landlords require tenants to repaint, and some landlords are required to repaint units themselves between tenants. Check your lease for your responsibilities before you pick up a brush. If you must take on this task and don’t have the correct paint, take a chip to a hardware store and have the color and finish matched. This is still a good idea even if a full repaint isn’t required, as you’ll want to touch up any chips or areas you’ve spackled.
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Wipe Down Doors, Cabinets, and Door Frames
You might be surprised at how dusty doors and cabinets can get over a year or two. Use a wet cloth to wipe them down, including hardware and fixtures. Screw in any loose hinges, and clean glass with ammonia or vinegar. Remove all items from cabinets, including any liners or contact paper you’ve added and make sure they’re free of crumbs and spills.
Sweep, Vacuum, and Mop Floors
If you’re worried about how to get a security deposit back, leaving the floors sparkling is a good place to start. You need to sweep, vacuum, and mop all floors for the best looking – and smelling – result. Deep cleaning apartments with carpet generally requires renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional service.
Take Out the Trash
Remove anything and everything that belongs to you from the apartment, including trash and furniture. Many renters assume landlords will take care of discarding unwanted items and they will…for a price. And that price will come from your security deposit.
5. Attend Final Inspection
Prioritize attending a final inspection in person with your landlord. If you can’t, ask if they can video-call you during the process. Review the inventory and condition form you filled out upon move-in to be reminded of any pre-existing damage or issues. During the inspection, point out any apartment upgrades you’ve made that might increase the value of the unit.
Renters have a lot of control over whether or not they get their security deposits back. If you agree with your lease terms, keep the rental in good condition, give proper notice when you plan to move out, and deep clean the apartment, chances are you’ll receive all or a good deal of your money back. If you have run into any issues, review your state’s landlord-tenant laws to understand your rights and share all of your documentation (and photos) with your landlord to back up your claim.
