Getting your Deposit Refunded

Ask what you have to do to have your deposit refunded. One of the most common disputes between residents and apartment owners is that the deposits are not returned. Residents believe they met the terms of the lease and are frustrated and angry when the deposit is not returned. Most apartment management staff are honorable people and want to do the right thing (Yes, I know there are some real scoundrels. However, most of them are reasonable people.)

Many leases require you to give the landlord 30 days notice if you plan to leave it at the end of your lease. In other words, if you pay your rent on time each month, and leave the apartment in a immaculate condition, your deposit will not be refunded if you do not give the landlord 30 days notice that you intend to move at the end of the lease!

Discuss the apartment management's expectations regarding cleaning the unit. In other words, what do they consider clean. If you remove your belongings and leave the carpet clean, tile clean and clean all the appliances, have you met your obligation? The expectations of "clean" can vary from property to property. Just make sure you know what is expected.

If you have a direct conversation with the apartment leasing staff regarding the deposit, they will tell you what you need to do to have your deposit refunded. This will reduce the stress when you move from the property.

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