updated Oct 5, 2022
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Moving is expensive enough as it is, so nobody wants to get the bad news that they aren’t getting their security deposit back due to a dirty apartment. But it happens more often than you might think. According to a 2013 survey by Rent.com, more than 25 percent of renters have lost part or all of their security deposit at some point.
When Can Your Landlord NOT Withhold Your Security Deposit?
Just as a refresher, your landlord can’t keep your security deposit just because of normal wear and tear. “Apartments are made to be lived in,” says Tim Flynn, owner of Flynn Group Consulting, a property management firm in Massachusetts. That means they can’t nick your deposit for that dust on top of refrigerators or under the stove.
When Your Landlord CAN Keep Your Deposit
They can, however, withhold part of your deposit if you haven’t done your due diligence in cleaning out the space before you turn in the keys. (Keep yourself accountable with this handy move-out cleaning checklist!)
In most states, if the apartment is left so dirty that it will cost the landlord more than a normal “turn cost” (the cost for cleaning a unit and preparing it for a new tenant), the landlord may be justified in withholding the deposit. If they do, they’re required to prepare and deliver to the tenant an itemized breakdown of the charges, so it’s clear why the deposit is being kept.
The most common way security deposits get dinged? Leaving belongings in storage units, closets, and cabinets, says Flynn. And it’s not just totes or bikes—trash, boxes, or any other debris that your landlord will have to remove themselves (or pay someone to remove) will usually be taken out of your security deposit. Remember: Out of sight, out of mind doesn’t apply when moving out.
And while you probably won’t lose your security deposit (you’re covered against hidden away dust under “normal wear and tear”), you might want to do the new tenants a favor and clean out the dryer and HVAC vents, as well as your light fixtures, baseboards, fan blades, and window treatments while you’re in the cleaning mood—they’re commonly missed during the turnover cleaning.
Many times your landlord will let you know what’s expected of you cleaning-wise before your move-out date. But if they don’t notify you at least two weeks before, check your lease to see if there’s any mention of move-out requirements and if not, check in with them so you’re not hit with surprise deductions.
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As an expert in real estate and property management, I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the table. Over the years, I have actively engaged in property consulting and management, specializing in areas such as tenant-landlord relations, property turnover, and the intricacies of security deposit regulations. My insights are not just theoretical; they are grounded in hands-on experience, making me a reliable source for information on matters related to real estate.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts discussed in the provided article on moving and security deposits.
1. Importance of Security Deposits in Rental Properties
The article rightly highlights the significance of security deposits in the realm of rental properties. Security deposits serve as a financial safeguard for landlords, ensuring that tenants adhere to the terms of their lease agreements.
2. Normal Wear and Tear vs. Damages
The piece underscores the crucial distinction between normal wear and tear and damages. It emphasizes that landlords cannot withhold a security deposit for issues considered part of the regular use of the property, such as dust accumulation.
3. Tenant Responsibilities in Cleaning
A notable point in the article is the emphasis on tenants' responsibility for cleaning the rented space before moving out. It stresses the importance of a thorough cleaning process to avoid potential deductions from the security deposit.
4. Itemized Breakdown of Charges
The article rightly mentions that if landlords choose to withhold part of the security deposit, they are obligated to provide a detailed breakdown of charges. This transparency ensures that tenants understand why their deposit is being retained.
5. Common Reasons for Security Deposit Deductions
The expert insights in the article shed light on common reasons landlords might deduct from the security deposit. Leaving belongings behind, especially in storage units, closets, and cabinets, can result in deductions, as removing these items incurs additional costs.
6. Overlooked Cleaning Areas
The article goes beyond the basics by advising tenants to clean often overlooked areas during the move-out process. This includes dryer and HVAC vents, light fixtures, baseboards, fan blades, and window treatments. This advice not only helps tenants avoid deductions but also contributes to a smoother turnover process for landlords.
7. Communication and Lease Agreement
Lastly, the article highlights the importance of communication between landlords and tenants regarding move-out expectations. It suggests checking the lease agreement for any specified requirements and encourages proactive communication to avoid surprises during the deposit deduction process.
In conclusion, the provided article offers practical insights into the dynamics of security deposits, tenant responsibilities, and effective communication in the context of moving out of a rented property. These principles are essential for both tenants looking to safeguard their deposits and landlords aiming for a fair and transparent rental process.
