Your security deposit is the one thing you can control when it comes to apartment fees and costs. Moving in can be hard and exhausting, so moving out is probably not the first thing on your mind. But it should be. From the moment you walk in that door, start looking around. Take notice of everything that is wrong, from a ding in the wall to scratches on the linoleum floor in the kitchen. If you want that security deposit back, make sure you document everything. You can even take pictures for more proof.
Once you get those keys, start from the front door and work your way through every room to see what's wrong. It's even smart to check the water pressure in the faucets, the sink drainage and how the appliances work. Don't forget to check the carpets, the floors in the kitchen and bathroom and the walls. Write down everything. If there are holes in the wall, write down how many and where. Look for scratches on the floors and if there are any stains. Take pictures with a dated camera if there are a lot of holes or scratches. That way there are no disputes when you decide to move out.
If there is anything wrong with the apartment, make a detailed checklist to turn into the office. The more you write down the better you will be in the end. In some states, the law requires landlords to disclose all the damages that were done to the property. If you happen to live in one of those states, go over the list provided for you and double-check it and feel free to add to it. Going over everything with the property manager is the best way to make sure you are both on the same page, but that is not always easy. If you can't go through the apartment with the manager or an associate, you can take pictures or videotape everything. Most apartments are in good condition when you move in and there may only be a few things out of place, but it doesn't hurt to document it all.
Checking and double-checking can only help you in the end. Remember, the apartment complex has a big chunk of your money and they're in business to make money. If you want to see that money again, you'll want to protect yourself. Putting down a security deposit not only protects the apartment complex, but it protects you as well. If you move out and happen to break something or damage the carpet, most apartments will just take it out of your deposit that way you don't have to worry about another bill. You are in control of how much or if any of your security deposit you get back. Make sure you protect yourself.
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