Now that I am a Property Manager as well as a Realtor I wanted to share a few tips to ensure you receive your full security deposit back after your lease is up.
1. Move-in and Condition Form - complete this as detailed as possible and return it by the due date. If there is no due date mentioned, ask. I suggest you get it back in less than a week. Before you move a single item into your new rental home or apartment walk through and document every crack, scratch, stain and any sort of damage. This is for your protection. Even if you walk the home with the manager, employees may change in a year or more. Make sure EVERYTHING is written down and you keep a copy.
2. Photos and Videos could be your best friend - take photos of the property before moving in and save them somewhere. You might lose your phone so be sure they are uploaded to your email or some place safe. Video is even better! You can walk the home, scan the walls, carpet, etc... I would upload it to a private YouTube channel or someplace you know it will be when you need it. Keep in mind you could be charged for anything not documented so protect yourself.
3. Be careful how many holes you put in the walls when hanging pictures. Use Command Strips or some non-invasive means to save a lot of headache down the road.
4. Pay on time - late fees can and will be deducted from your deposit so make sure your rent is always on time. Pay online if possible to ensure you have proof of payment date.
5. Report needed repairs. Damages occurring from deferred maintenance could be your responsibility if not reported timely.
6. Maintain the home and yard - if the owner or management company has to hire someone because you aren't cutting the grass you will be charged. Same with city or HOA violations for not maintaining it according to code. You could be charged and fines assessed.
7. Ask for move-out guidelines so you know exactly what is expected. Clean, clean, clean! Remove all trash. Leave the home in the same condition you found it in. The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is a life saver! Keep receipts for carpet cleaning, house keeper, etc...
1. Move-in and Condition Form - complete this as detailed as possible and return it by the due date. If there is no due date mentioned, ask. I suggest you get it back in less than a week. Before you move a single item into your new rental home or apartment walk through and document every crack, scratch, stain and any sort of damage. This is for your protection. Even if you walk the home with the manager, employees may change in a year or more. Make sure EVERYTHING is written down and you keep a copy.
2. Photos and Videos could be your best friend - take photos of the property before moving in and save them somewhere. You might lose your phone so be sure they are uploaded to your email or some place safe. Video is even better! You can walk the home, scan the walls, carpet, etc... I would upload it to a private YouTube channel or someplace you know it will be when you need it. Keep in mind you could be charged for anything not documented so protect yourself.
3. Be careful how many holes you put in the walls when hanging pictures. Use Command Strips or some non-invasive means to save a lot of headache down the road.
4. Pay on time - late fees can and will be deducted from your deposit so make sure your rent is always on time. Pay online if possible to ensure you have proof of payment date.
5. Report needed repairs. Damages occurring from deferred maintenance could be your responsibility if not reported timely.
6. Maintain the home and yard - if the owner or management company has to hire someone because you aren't cutting the grass you will be charged. Same with city or HOA violations for not maintaining it according to code. You could be charged and fines assessed.
7. Ask for move-out guidelines so you know exactly what is expected. Clean, clean, clean! Remove all trash. Leave the home in the same condition you found it in. The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is a life saver! Keep receipts for carpet cleaning, house keeper, etc...
I hope these little tips will save you some headache and help you get your full security deposit back.
Best of luck on your move! And if you are thinking about buying a home in the future I would love to help you. RE/MAX serves 90 different countries and even if you aren't in the Fort Worth, TX area I would be happy to help you find a qualified Realtor in your area.
Best of luck on your move! And if you are thinking about buying a home in the future I would love to help you. RE/MAX serves 90 different countries and even if you aren't in the Fort Worth, TX area I would be happy to help you find a qualified Realtor in your area.