Face it: you aren’t getting one hundred percent of that deposit back. No matter how clean, careful, and thoughtful you are, there is nothing you can do to circumvent all the charges that accrue upon move-out. That being said, here are some tips to ward off unnecessary fees.
Maintain Your Carpets
It doesn’t have to be an in-depth job, but a light vacuuming every few days will drastically increase the long-term cleanliness of your carpets. You might also consider renting a steam cleaner a couple times a year, but check with your landlord first since many properties routinely steam the carpets after you move out.
Also, remember to treat stains immediately and with urgency. Coffee marks don’t come out very easily, even if attended to promptly, and you don’t want to try removing them three years after the fact.
Clean Hard-to-Reach Surfaces
You may not actively use them, but they deserve a wipe-down. These include:
- Stove fans and surfaces
- Unused cabinets, closets, and drawers
- Behind, around, and under the refrigerator
- Crevices (i.e., gaps between counters and the stove)
- Dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers
Keep a supply of Lysol wipes or Windex on hand, and wipe two or three of these surfaces a week during your other chores.
Be Gentle With Your Furniture — Especially if it is Against a Wall
Falling into bed after a long day may seem tempting, but you’re better off crawling. Dents, nicks, and scrapes on the walls won’t go unnoticed—in fact, they’re some of the most common blemishes—and are expensive to fix.
Refrain from dragging chairs or your table, as well. Taking the extra second to pick things up and gently set them down will save you noticeable amounts on your deposit return.
The above tips keep you in good standing with your landlord and help you make the most of your deposit. If you are looking to move out to a rental property that fits you and your family better, give Keyrenter Provo a call today at (801) 614-2000!