Who doesn’t want to get the security deposit back, on their soon-to be old place? But this is a task that isn’t always to accomplish. Because of this, Short Term Housing has created a list of tips to help you get your security deposit back.

Read your lease carefully and think ahead

Read your lease, and understand what is contained within it. Make sure your landlord gives you a checklist. And when they do, don’t rush through it. Go slow. And critique every last thing. While it isn’t fun, it can really save you in the future.

Try to be clean. I mean, really

If you spill, don’t let the stains set. If you have pets, clean the place constantly. Clean messes as soon as you find them. I’m not saying that you have to be OCD. Just- be clean. That’s all.

Notifications

If something goes wrong, notify your landlord immediately. If something breaks from normal wear and tear the landlord is obligated to pay for it. Make sure you make a note of what the damage was, when it was replaced, and how much it cost. If the landlord tries to nail you for this later, you have evidence of what a responsible tenant you were.

Take Before and After Photos

Take photos before you move in, and when you are moving out. Take pictures of every room, every blemish. Make sure the landlord does a walk through with you, and signs an agreement saying that you left the place in good condition. Don’t worry. You’re not a jerk for doing this. You have a right to protect yourself and your money.

Get it in writing

Write your complaints down in the form of emails or letters. Keep as much of the communication in writing as possible. Verbal agreements and disagreement (i.e “He said!”, “She Said!”) just don’t offer enough proof.

Just because your landlord is nice…

Be wary of everyone. Just if your landlord seems to be the sweetest person in the world, that doesn’t automatically mean a returned security deposit. Don’t let something slip, just because you think your landlord really likes you.