Nexus Real Estate Group

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Getting Your Security Deposit Back

Renters are afraid of the rental security deposit, especially if they have difficulty finding rental spaces. We've got your back with 10 things to do to ensure you get your entire deposit back. Get ready to clean.

These Steps Will Help You Get The Best From Your Landlord:

  • Submit Maintenance Requests In Advance

    You can submit a maintenance request to the landlord if there is anything that needs attention. This is good for the landlord so that you can cross your ts before your move day.

  • Fill In The Holes

    These will be mostly nailed holes from hanging photos, but there may be some other nicks or dings from normal wear and tear, pets, or children. Grab some spackle, a putty knife, and some tape. Take out all hooks, nails, screws, and screws from the walls. The putty knives can be used to fill the holes with spackles. After cleaning up the edges, flatten them with the straight edge of a putty knife. After the spackle has dried, you can smoothen the area with a block or piece of sandpaper. To hide any putty marks, you can paint the wall. Although it might seem like a lot of work, you'll be glad that you took the time to do it.

  • Paint Or Touch Up

    Painting is the next step if needed. This should be discussed with your landlords. You will be required to return any paint or marks from children or other people to the white wall. You don't have to paint everything if you choose a match white for the apartment. Trim that has been damaged by furniture chewed on or clawed by pets or other debris may require a little bit of spackle and a new coat of paint.

  • Clean Thoroughly

    Your apartment should be cleaned from top to bottom. Use a wet towel to clean the baseboards. Grab a broom, or an extended duster, to remove spider webs from ceilings and moldings. Make sure that the bathroom sparkles. You should not see any soap scum or mold residue. The same goes for the kitchen, and don't forget about the oven. It's a good idea to clean the oven door and bottom and remove the burners. Take out the liners from cabinets and wipe them down both inside and out.

  • Rent A Carpet Steamer

    If you want to get your deposit back, it is well worth the effort. Your landlord will be grateful for your effort. For $50 and just a few hours, carpet steamers can make a huge difference in a room's condition. They are faster and more powerful than vacuums. You should plan ahead and move any furniture and boxes to other rooms before renting your steamer.

  • Check Doors, Windows, And Screens

    You can check doors for any damage, and you can putty/paint any areas pets, children, or heavy grocery bags may have left. If possible, clean windows both inside and out. If necessary, inspect all windows and doors for damage. These little things will ensure that your rental is in top shape when the landlord comes by.

  • Take Everything Out

    You should inspect every part of your home, including behind doors and under cabinets. It is bad manners to leave anything behind. It is bad form to leave behind any curtain rods that you have installed. A roll of toilet paper is the only thing you should leave in your bathroom. All other trash and items must be taken away.

  • Give Keys And Garage Door Openers To The Landlord

    It makes it easier for landlords to verify that all keys are present by having them all on one counter. Do not forget to return spare keys from neighbors, friends, and children. You will also find it useful to have the original lease to discuss any questions with your landlord.

  • Be Honest

    Things happen. It's part of life. Tell the landlord upfront if something is damaged. Your landlord must itemize the expenses taken from your security deposits and cannot withhold the entire amount. You can earn a great recommendation for future rental applications by being upfront.