If you've ever lived in an apartment home, then you know it's common to provide a security deposit to the leasing office to cover unpaid rent or clean-up after you’re gone. However, you can only be charged for items not covered under “general wear and tear.” Typically, a leasing agent must provide an itemized deduction of how your security deposit was spent OR return your money in full, within 14-30 days.
Here’s what you can do to help get your deposit back and keep your apartment in good condition:
- Document any existing damage during your first apartment walk-through. Take photographs. If you have a cellphone, you probably have a camera built-in.
- Give 30/60/90 day notice before moving out. Check your lease agreement for the exact time needed to give notice to your leasing agent.
- Clean the apartment thoroughly.
- Scrub the oven.
- Be present when the landlord reviews the apartment. Confirm any repair or cleaning expectations and get it in writing.
- Document your cleaning and repair work.
- Give the leasing agent your forwarding address to mail your deposit check.
Here is a list of items NOT covered under general wear and tear:
- Stains and burns on the carpet.
- Broken windows.
- Broken or missing blinds.
- Broken light fixtures.
- Gouges in the doors and walls.
- Flea infestation caused by your pet.
- Pet scratches on the molding and on/around doors.
- Water damage.
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