By Sara Mallory
The average security deposit is one month of rent. In the United States, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,356. That’s money you don’t want to lose when you move out! But how can you ensure that you get that money back after moving out of your apartment? How does a security deposit even work?
A security deposit is a payment that landlords usually require when a new tenant signs a lease or moves into their rental property. The payment is a way to ensure that the tenant keeps the property in good condition. If the condition of the property is acceptable at the end of the tenant’s lease, the security deposit is paid back in full. If property damage does occur, the landlord uses money from the security deposit to pay for repairs.
Each state has specific rules and regulations for security deposits. Some require landlords to hold security deposits in designated savings accounts. Others prevent landlords from charging more than one month of rent.
In order to get your security deposit returned, you need to keep your rental property in good condition. Read on for some habits to adopt that will help you reclaim your security deposit!
Create a Cleaning Schedule
If you’re going to get your security deposit back, you have to take care of your home. You can’t let dirt and grime build up or maintenance problems go unfixed. Tenants with short leases may not think it’s important to maintain the property. However, your security deposit is still at risk.
The best way to prevent your apartment from falling into disrepair is to create a cleaning schedule. Keeping a clean space will help you get your security deposit back. A schedule will keep you organized and on track.
When creating your schedule, think of all the tasks you have to do on a recurring basis. Every day, you have to make your beds, put away clutter, and do the dishes. Every week you should clean the bathroom. You might need to do the laundry, vacuum, and clean the kitchen, too. How often do you need to vacuum? As you think, make a list of every chore and how often it needs to get done. You can even find a creative or aesthetically pleasing way to display this list. For example, some people like using whiteboard calendars.
Document Everything
As soon as you get the keys to your new place, you should begin documenting its condition. This is an important habit to develop. It will allow you to create a record of the property, including any existing damages like faded paint on the wall or chipped tiles on the kitchen floor. You will use this record when you move out at the end of your lease. If your landlord charges you for any damages, use this record to prove whether or not you caused the damages.
Take pictures of each and every room. Make sure to take close-ups of any existing damage. Save these pictures by emailing them to yourself. A timestamp is always useful to have.
You may also request a walk-through or inspection before you move into your rental property. This is another form of documentation, usually done with the landlord or a third party present.
Finally, if you ever need repairs or maintenance work done, keep a written record. Reporting issues like leaks, mold, or pests will show that you are a responsible tenant. Fixing these issues will also keep your living conditions pleasant.
Understand Your Lease
Before signing a lease, review it carefully, as it will include information about damages. It will likely go over who’s responsible for repairs and how damages will be assessed. If it’s not already included, you can request an itemized list of potential reasons for deductions from the security deposit.
Some leases make tenants responsible for damages if they fail to report issues promptly. Understanding the lease will alert you to other requirements so you can plan accordingly.
In addition to understanding the lease, it’s also good practice to view the home before signing. This will help you get a feel for the property and assess any existing damage.
Understand Your Rights
Not all damage will cost you your security deposit. Normal “wear and tear” is protected. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) lists chipped paint, nail holes, and loose grout as examples of normal damages that occur over time. Tenants are not at fault for this kind of damage, so it would be illegal for a landlord to charge for the repairs.
Treating your home with respect, cleaning regularly, and staying knowledgeable on housing laws will help you get your security deposit back.
Equal Housing Opportunity
