With the security deposit that you put on your new apartment, you are strapped and want to make sure to get all of your security deposit back on your soon-to-be old place. We all know the horror stories of landlords retaining security deposits for things that either were there when you moved in or aren’t that big of a deal. Here are five tips to ensure you get every penny back.
- Think ahead. It may be too late now, but, when you move into your new apartment, make sure that you do a move-in inspection and complete a checklist. Don’t whip through it - while it isn’t a lot of fun and top of the list on move-in day, when you find the shower door has a crack a week after you move in, it will be too late. Be thorough and, if necessary, document any damage with photos.
- Cleanliness is Next to Getting Your Deposit Back. Leaving the place a disaster is one sure way to make sure that the landlord withholds at least a portion of your deposit. While you don’t have to hire a cleaning service, make sure you clean the place. There is no faster way to anger a landlord who needs to do a quick turn on the apartment than by leaving it dirty or, worse, leaving things that you don’t care about in the apartment.
- Walk Through. One great way to make sure there are no surprises is to schedule a walk through with your landlord or property manager. This way, you can get him to sign-off on the condition of your apartment. If there is something that is pointed out, you can decide whether you want to fix it, dispute it or just pay for it.
- All for One. Unfortunately, under most leases, security deposits are joint, meaning that you and your roommates share one security deposit. So, even if your roommate broke the dishwasher, “your” security deposit can be held hostage. Before you move out, make sure you are on the same page with your roommate about who is responsible for what. Get it in writing. And, if you can, next time, plan ahead with a roommate agreement.
- Know your Rights. Generally, local law will provide the parameters of how long a landlord can retain your security deposit, whether you need to be paid interest and what rights you have. If you have an issue, do a quick online search for your city’s landlord-tenant laws. A little knowledge can go a long way.
If there is a problem, discuss it with your landlord. Often people don’t dispute any deductions from security deposits, which can lead to more aggressive tactics by some property managers. As is often the case, the squeaky wheel gets the grease. So, if you need to, start squeaking.
