If there is something that landlords have become known for doing everything that they can to ensure that they do not have to pay their tenants their deposits back. If you have ever rented a home, you have likely had problems getting a deposit back. Here are some methods you can use to ensure that you get your deposit back.
Make Sure You Take Pictures of Any Damages When You Move In
When you move into a new home, it is important to document any existing damages so that you can get your full home deposit back when you move out. To do this, take pictures of any damages before you move in, paying special attention to walls, flooring, windows, and doors. Make sure the pictures clearly show the damage, such as a crack in the wall or a broken window. Additionally, take a few pictures of the room in general to provide context, and make sure to document the date and time the photos were taken. Finally, be sure to save the photos in a safe place, such as a cloud storage service, and keep them until after you move out.
Do not Smoke in The Home
One of the most effective ways to get your home deposit back is to not smoke in the home. This means not smoking in any room, including the kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms, as well as not smoking on the balcony or patio. It is important that you keep all lighters, matches, and ashtrays in an area where smoking is not allowed to avoid the temptation of smoking. It is also important to not allow anyone to smoke in your home, and to always inform family members and visitors that smoking is not allowed. If you do smoke, make sure to do it outside and away from the home to ensure that no smoke enters the home.
Avoid Getting Pets
One of the simplest methods to ensure you get your home deposit back is to make sure you don’t get any pets. Pets can cause a lot of damage to a home and they may not be allowed in the home you are renting. Even if they are, they can damage carpets, walls, and furniture, making it difficult to receive your deposit back when you move out. Additionally, if you do bring a pet into the home, you may be required to pay for additional pet deposits, as well as pet rent during your stay. This can add up to a lot of money, making it difficult to get your deposit back in full. Make sure you read all the rules and regulations before bringing a pet into the home to ensure you can get your deposit back.
Make Sure You Deep Clean When You Move Out
When you move out of your home, make sure you do a deep clean. This includes scrubbing the floors, baseboards, and walls to remove any dirt, dust, and grime. Don’t forget to clean the windows, both inside and out, and any screens that you may have attached to them. All appliances and fixtures such as faucets, toilets, and showers should be thoroughly cleaned. Make sure that you clean your home before you move out and start the process of cleaning a few weeks before, so that you can make sure everything is done to a great standard. Make sure to use an appropriate cleaner for each surface. Also, don’t forget to clean inside cabinets and drawers, as well as closets and any other areas where dust or dirt may have accumulated. Vacuum or mop the floors and use a degreaser to remove any stuck-on grease or grime.
Be Sure You Know Your Tenancy Agreement Well
When it comes to tenancy agreements, it is important to read the document thoroughly and seek clarification on any questions you may have. This can help you avoid any potential disputes with your landlord and ensure that you get your deposit back at the end of the tenancy. Additionally, make sure you keep a copy of the tenancy agreement for your records. You may also want to take notes or highlight any important sections of the agreement to make sure you are aware of all of your responsibilities as a tenant.