Maximizing Your Security Deposit: The Ultimate Move-Out Guide

Moving into a new apartment is always exciting, but the moving-out of your old apartment can be a stressful process. With the right preparation and attention to detail, you can make the move-out process painless and increase the likelihood of getting your full security deposit returned. Here are some general guidelines for renters to follow to maximize their security deposit return.

1. Review Your Lease Agreement

Before you start packing, take a moment to review your lease agreement. This document is your best resource for understanding what’s expected of you when you move out. Pay attention to:

• Specific Requirements: Many leases include detailed instructions for moving out, such as the required notice period, cleaning standards, and any repairs you’re responsible for.
• Notice to Landlord: Typically, you need to provide written notice of your intent to move out 30-60 days before your lease ends. Make sure you know the exact timeframe to avoid penalties.

2. Deep Cleaning the Apartment

One of the biggest factors in determining how much of your security deposit you’ll get back is the condition of the property when you leave. Landlords expect the property to be returned in the same condition as when you moved in, minus normal wear and tear. Try to give yourself an extra day or two from when your movers haul everything away to when your lease officially ends so you have time to get to all the dust bunnies from under your furniture. Here’s a detailed cleaning guide to help you cover all the bases:

Kitchen

• Oven and Stovetop: Clean the oven inside and out, including racks, and wipe down the stovetop. Don’t forget to clean the range hood and filter.
• Microwave: Heat a bowl of water with lemon inside to loosen grime, then wipe down the interior and exterior.
• Refrigerator and Freezer: Empty the fridge, clean all shelves and drawers, and wipe down the exterior.
• Cabinets and Drawers: Remove all items, wipe down interiors, and clean cabinet doors and handles.
• Sink and Countertops: Scrub the sink, clean the faucet, and ensure countertops are stain-free and sanitized.
• Dishwasher: Run an empty cycle with vinegar to clean and deodorize, and wipe down the exterior.

Bathrooms

• Shower and Tub: Scrub tiles, grout, and glass doors. Pay attention to soap scum and hard water stains.
• Toilet: Clean inside the bowl, under the rim, and wipe down the exterior of the toilet.
• Sink and Vanity: Scrub the sink basin, clean the faucet, and wipe down the countertop. Clean the mirror with a streak-free glass cleaner.
• Cabinets and Drawers: Empty and wipe down interiors, and clean any remaining items or debris.
• Floor: Sweep and mop the bathroom floor, paying special attention to corners and behind the toilet.

Windows and Walls

• Windows: Clean all interior windows, wipe down tracks and sills, and dust blinds.
• Walls: Remove scuff marks, handprints, and other smudges with a gentle cleaner or magic eraser. Fill any holes larger than a pencil eraser with spackle, then sand smooth and touch up with matching paint.

General Living Space

• Doors: Wipe down all doors, especially around handles and edges.
• Baseboards: Dust and wipe down baseboards to remove dirt and dust buildup.

If cleaning feels like too much to handle in the middle of a big move, you can always hire a professional cleaning service. While this may cost a bit upfront, it’s often worth it to ensure your apartment meets the standards needed to get your security deposit back. Hiring a service can be more affordable than leaving the task to the property management, who will charge a cleaning fee taken from your deposit.

3. Address Any Repairs Needed

In addition to the standard wear-and-tear, many residents overlook the small things that landlords may need to repair after a move-out. Take time to evaluate:

• Minor Repairs: Fix minor issues such as holes in walls, broken blinds, and loose fixtures. Use spackle to fill nail holes, and touch up paint if necessary.
• Major Repairs: If there are significant damages (e.g., carpet stains, appliance damage), consult your landlord or hire a professional to ensure it’s done properly.
• Photographic Evidence: Take clear, dated photos of every room, including close-ups of any repairs or cleaning you’ve done.

4. Remove All Personal Items

Before leaving, do a final sweep of the apartment to confirm all personal items are removed. Look through every room, closet, cabinet, and drawer to ensure nothing is left behind. Don’t forget to:

• Remove food items: Double check all food has been removed from the refrigerator and pantry.
• Dispose of Trash: Take out all trash and dispose of it properly.

According to Maria Recht, Senior Property Manager at GreenTree Property Management, the most common issue during a move-out inspection is personal items left behind. “Residents often leave small household items, shower curtains and even furniture. These items need to be removed to avoid deductions from the security deposit,” comments Recht.

To assist residents with the move-out process, GreenTree has partnered with Remoov, an all-in-one decluttering service. Remoov picks up everything a resident wants to sell, donate or dispose of.

5. Final Logistics for Moving Out

When you’ve completed all the cleaning, repairs and removal of all personal items, it’s time to move-out! Some best practices for your final days are:

• Final Walkthrough: If possible, schedule a final walkthrough with your landlord to review the condition together.
• Forwarding Address: Provide your new address to the landlord for the return of your security deposit.
• Inspection Report: Request a copy of the report for your records. This can be valuable if there’s a dispute over the deposit.
• Other Services: Don’t forget to cancel or transfer services like internet and cable. This will ensure you’re not billed after you move out.
• Keys: Return all keys, garage openers, and access cards to the landlord. Surrendering keys is the indication that you have vacated the rental unit allowing your landlord to prepare for the next tenant.

By following this comprehensive move-out guide, you can significantly increase your chances of getting your full security deposit back. Remember, a little extra effort before you leave can save you a lot of money and hassle down the line!