One of the biggest problems many renters face is trying to get their security deposits back upon vacating their rental units. Sometimes, it can seem as though this is just the cost of renting an apartment, as if landlords are looking for ways to keep that money. If you’re diligent and keep the unit in good condition, however, there’s every reason to expect your landlord to return that refundable deposit. Per these Jacksonville apartment movers, here are some steps you can take:
1. Tour Your Unit
Upon renting your new unit, you have an opportunity to see the unit before you sign your lease. Take advantage of it! Upon touring the unit, it’s a good idea to take photos and a video using your phone. The video can be used to document the general appearance of the unit, while photos should be used to capture any flaws or existing damage in the apartment.
2. Document Maintenance Issues
It’s also important to document any maintenance problems you experience during lease. Whenever possible, make these requests via email or via another method that provides written documentation. Not only does this ensure the repair is completed within a reasonable time, but it also protects your security deposit. Without written evidence, an unethical landlord could say you never reported the issue and may use that to withhold a portion of your deposit.
3. Ask Your Landlord How You’re Expected to Leave the Unit
You may also miss out on your deposit by leaving the unit in poor condition even if that isn’t your intention. Each landlord has different expectations for what the tenant must do upon vacating the apartment. Often this involves the final cleaning of the apartment, so be sure to ask what’s expected of you in this regard.
4. Protect Your Floors
The most commonly cited reason for withholding a security deposit is damage to the floors. For this reason, you should be extra cautious in protecting carpeting, vinyl flooring, and tiles. It may be a good idea to take shoes off at the door and lay down plastic runners in high traffic areas. It’s also a good idea to keep a small carpet steam cleaner on hand for spills, especially if you have pets or small children.
5. Patch Up Holes
Landlords may deduct a considerable amount from your security deposit for even small holes in the drywall. To avoid this, pick up a drywall patch kit at your local hardware store. In addition to covering up larger holes that may have resulted from accidents, also plug up holes left behind by shelves, pictures, and other wall hangings. If you know the shade of paint used in your apartment, you should wait for the patchwork to dry and give it a fresh coat of paint.
6. Forge a Good Relationship with Your Landlord
While you won’t find this in your lease, it’s really just a bit of common sense. If you try to get along with your landlord and always approach him or her in a friendly manner, you can improve your chances of getting your deposit back. Conversely, if you’re a problem tenant who plays music too loud, is combative with other tenants, and frequently makes frivolous maintenance requests, your landlord is less likely to be lenient about returning your deposit.
A security deposit is often a considerable sum of money, so you do want to try to get it back. The best way to do that is to be diligent in caring for the apartment. Additionally, communicate openly with your landlord, so you know what to expect of one another. Above all, every issue pertaining to the care of the rental unit should be documented, so you can provide evidence if a dispute over the deposit does arise.