How to Get Your Deposit Back!
Moving to a new place can be exciting. Perhaps you are
moving on from renting and buying your first home. Even if you just moving into
a new rental, you will want to make sure you get your security deposit back.
Getting your full deposit back can help offset the cost of moving. Here are
some of our top tips:
- Plan Ahead. This is easier said than done. But, hopefully, you had the foresight to record any damages that the property already had before you moved in. It’s even better if you snapped photos of the damage. This way you won’t be liable for any of those damages when you move out.
- Know the Law. States have different laws about getting your security deposit back. In North Carolina, the landlord typically has 30 days to get you your deposit or send you an itemized list of damages. Sometimes, the landlord can get an extension to up to 60 days. North Carolina does not allow landlords to charge you for normal wear and tear. But for more information check out the NC landlord tenant rights brochure.
- Fix any Changes or Damages. Sometimes during the course of living, damages occur. Perhaps a pet ripped a screen door or maybe you decided to paint a room in zebra stripes. Whatever the changes or damages, it might be cheaper to repair them yourself than to have the landlord take care of it.
- Hire Professional Movers. Letting the pros at T-N-T Moving Systems move your stuff will save you time and there's less chance of damage to the property. When letting your friends and family help you move, you are liable for their mistakes. If they ram your couch into the wall and cause a hole, you’ll have to repair that before you can get your deposit back. So play it safe, and hire professionals with liability insurance.
- Clean. After moving everything out, this might be the last thing you want to do. That’s why we recommend hiring professionals to the heavy lifting. You can stay back and clean out the old place. Be sure to wipe down all surfaces, thoroughly clean appliances, dust the blinds and ceiling fans, and clean the floors. Take pictures as well in case any discrepancies occur with the landlord.
- Do a Walk Through with Landlord. Set up a move-out walk through with your landlord. Take pictures as well to ensure that there won’t be any discrepancies. Ask if there is anything that you need to fix and offer to fix them. If the landlord gives you no reason for keeping part of the deposit, try to get the deposit back at this meeting.
Hopefully these tips will help you
get your full security deposit back. It can help you recoup part of the cost of
moving or help you splurge on new furniture for your new place. Whatever you
decide to do with it, you will be happy to have it. And remember, we give free estimates. Our services
are a la carte, so you can pick and choose what you need us to do. Call us
today at 704-523-1455.
