Easy fixes to help renters get their security deposits back
Putting down a large sum comprised of first and last month’s rent plus a security deposit when signing a new apartment or house lease is a total bummer. While you’ll reap the rewards later when it comes to having already paid rent for two months, it’s questionable whether or not even the neatest person will ever see that security deposit again.
But think positive. Yes, you will get back your security deposit – if you’re prepared.
Getting your security deposit back in full starts before you even move into your new rental. Read your lease thoroughly, and know exactly what you’re reading closely for.
Take note of everything, and get it in writing
When it comes to physical property, take note of what you’re responsible for. Landlords usually cover large appliances, plumbing, and electrical issues. However, double-check these stipulations so you know if it’s up to you to call the plumber for a leaky faucet. If you have any questions, ask your landlord sooner rather than later and always get it in writing; verbal confirmation won’t be enough if a disagreement arises.
As you begin to move into your apartment, keep track of any existing damage. Take photos and make a list to send to your landlord. Not only will this hopefully get any problems taken care of, but it also means that you won’t be held responsible.
● Bidding wars in NYC: Tenants scramble for apartments, rents skyrocket as COVID deals vanish
Throughout your time living in the apartment, keep up this habit of taking inventory of any issues that arise, and keep your landlord updated so they’re aware of any broken appliances or damage to the facilities that they need to fix for you and future tenants.
Staying proactive through your residency will protect you as a renter from being held responsible for problems that you’ve given your landlord plenty of notice about.
When it’s time to move out
When the time comes and you prepare to move out, you can always ask your landlord to do a walk-through with you to gain clarity. There may be small DIY fixes that you need to implement to secure your security deposit.
Here are some of the most common fixes you’ll need to make to get your security deposit back.
1. Spackle holes in the walls
Thumbs tacks seem like the best and fastest ways to pin up posters to add some personality to your walls. But, if
you’ve created a stunning gallery wall in your home, there’s a chance you’ve also created quite a few holes.
If your walls are scattered with small holes, you’re at risk for losing your security deposit. However, this can be solved with a $6 tool.
3M has crafted an applicator that will fix holes up to 3 inches in diameter. The applicator is filled with a putty primer that fills the hole, which you can then spread and sand down using either end of the applicator. This simple and straightforward repair tool will get the job done quickly and have the walls of your rental looking as good as new.
Get the 3M High Strength Small Hole Repair at Amazon for $6
2. Repaint any peeling spots
Maybe you didn’t put holes in the walls for your home décor and instead used Command Strips or poster putty. If some wall paint peels off with the strips or putty when you go to remove them, then you may need to pull out some paint brushes.
The task of painting your apartment may be a hefty one, especially if you’ve
painted any walls in your apartment, but the best-case scenario is that you just need to spot paint. Ask your landlord for the paint color he or she used for your space so that you don’t have to try and match it and potentially end up making the walls look splotchy.
Get the BEHR Multi-surface Stainblocking Primer and Sealer at The Home Depot for $27.98
3. Remove stains from the carpets and couches
That pet stain on your apartment’s floor-to-floor carpeting or the red wine stain that has been lingering on the couch of your fully furnished apartment could come back to haunt you once you try to get back your security deposit.
A tried and true carpet cleaner that can work on a variety of upholstery types is key to getting out these stains. Woolite’s Instaclean stain remover is tough on stains but safe for children and pets who may come in contact with it.
If your stains are a little more heavy duty, it may be time to invest in a carpet cleaner with some real power behind it. The Bissell Little Green Machine is compact enough to travel between apartments with you but still has some superb force behind it to suck out those deep-rooted stains.
Get the Woolite Instaclean Stain Remover at Amazon for $16.49
Get the Bissel Little Green Machine at Amazon for $108
4. Put those tiles back into place
While you may have forgotten that pesky bathroom tile that got kicked out of place, your landlord is sure to notice. Repairing your tiles doesn’t require you to do a full day of laying tiles. Instead, an adhesive made for quick repairs can come to the rescue.
If you have just one or two missing tiles, then a tube of adhesive is just under $10, and it can help you get the job done. Make sure to give the tile and floor a good scrub to clean out any grime that could affect how well the tile ultimately stays put.
Get the Fix-a-floor Repair Adhesive at The Home Depot for $9.97
Get the Clorox Clean-up All Purpose Cleaner with Bleach at Amazon for $3.58
5. Leave your space clean and tidy
Potentially the most surprising reason why you wouldn’t get your security deposit back has nothing to do with a broken appliance or scratch on the wall. It’s actually the cleanliness of your apartment that could cost you.
When moving out of your rental, after the furniture and belongings have all been cleaned out, take the time to give it a once over for objects left behind and for areas that may need some scrubbing.
Dusting and vacuuming your space can get rid of any debris that got stirred up when you moved your stuff out. After you’ve cleaned up, give the windowsills, baseboards, sinks, and counters a good wipe down to clean away any lingering grime. Running over floors with a handy mop will give your space a refreshed shine, making it a welcoming spot for the next tenants.
Get the Swiffer Duster Starter Kit at Amazon for $20.99
Get the Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum at Amazon for $199
Get Mrs. Meyers Multi-purpose spray at Amazon for $4.70
Get the Swiffer Wet Jet at Amazon for $28.24
There’s a lot more where this came from.sign up for our weekly newsletter to get all our reviews, expert advice, deals and more.
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tiktok or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.