{"id":25221,"date":"2024-01-19T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-01-19T05:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cubesmart.com\/blog\/?p=25221"},"modified":"2024-04-19T15:20:04","modified_gmt":"2024-04-19T19:20:04","slug":"5-tips-to-get-your-apartment-security-deposit-back","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/staging.cubesmart.dev\/blog\/your-life\/5-tips-to-get-your-apartment-security-deposit-back\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Tips to Get Your Apartment Security Deposit Back"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Secure your security deposit when you move out with these 5 steps.
Free Image via Pexels<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re planning a move to a rental house or apartment, there are certain steps you need to take to make sure you get your security deposit returned in full <\/em>when you move out. So, if you\u2019re among those wondering how to get a security deposit back, take note: a little prep work at the beginning of your lease will most certainly pay off at the end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

First thing\u2019s first: What is a security deposit\u2026and do you get the security deposit back?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A security deposit is an amount of money (generally the same as one month\u2019s rent) given to the leasing agent or owner to cover any damages incurred to the home. While the laws vary from state to state, landlords must return this money to you (sometimes with interest!) when you move out at the end of the lease term. However<\/em>, if you don\u2019t live up to your end of the deal, the landlord can and will use funds from the security deposit to pay for damages, cleaning, and even nonpayment of rent. Think of the security deposit as an insurance policy for the landlord.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether you\u2019re moving into your first apartment<\/a> or your 50th, you need to be completely informed about how to get your security deposit back, including the expectations you must meet during and after your tenancy. Typically, normal \u201cwear and tear\u201d of the home is acceptable, and renters are only required to leave the dwelling in \u201cbroom-swept\u201d condition. The key is to agree with your landlord about what those somewhat vague definitions mean before<\/em> you sign on the dotted line.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scroll down to read our five expert tips to get your apartment security deposit back in full.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1.\u00a0Read Your Lease Agreement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It can be tempting to simply scan your lease agreement before signing, especially if the landlord assures you it\u2019s a \u201cstandard issue\u201d lease. Don\u2019t make that mistake. Take time with the lease document and read it closely. Pay particular attention to what your responsibilities will be \u2013 and what rules you have to follow \u2013 while you live there and when you move out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With regards to the security deposit, make note of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n