How To Get Your Security Deposit Back

Security deposits are an unavoidable aspect of renting a property, whether that be in an apartment complex or a single-family residence. McKenna Property Management wants to return your full security deposit back to you, and our favorite move-outs are the ones in which we can provide a full security deposit refund to you. When a property is left in good condition, it makes the move-out process extremely simple and easy. This also makes tenants happy because we can return their deposits. Here are some ways to ensure you receive your full deposit back:

Rent/Utilities: Avoiding unpaid rent charges to your security deposit is the easiest way to receive the maximum refund. To avoid these charges, upon vacancy, make sure that you have no outstanding rent balance and that you are following the property manager's move-out procedure. Remember, most property managers require a 30-day notice to their office, and typically, you must notify them of when you vacate the property at the end of this 30-day period. If you fail to communicate with your property manager during your vacancy, and do not vacate within that 30-day window, you may be charged pro-rated rent as the property manager's office is under the impression that you are still occupying the property. Proper and effective communication is key throughout the entire moveout process. Additionally, any utilities that remain unpaid at a tenant's move-out will be paid down using the security deposit.

Maintenance/Cleaning: Ultimately, it is the property manager's responsibility to protect these properties on behalf of the homeowners. This means that at move-out, any damage found at the property that is above normal wear and tear will be repaired and that charge will be paid via the security deposit, along with the cost of cleaning the property to get it rent ready. To avoid these kinds of maintenance and repair charges, it is best to not make any alterations or modifications to the property that will have to be addressed at move-out. Take good care of the property and thoroughly clean it prior to move-out. Please make sure to follow the guidelines in your lease and information that your property manager will send to you during your move out to help you determine the cleaning standards.

Move-In Condition Report: Lastly, the best way to avoid security deposit charges is by submitting your Move-In Condition Report, or similar document, when you first move into the property. This report serves as documentation of the condition of the property prior to your tenancy, and prevents charges to your security deposit that were not the result of your tenancy. In most cases, this report is only accepted for 30 days after your move-in, and failure to return this document to your property manager within that timeframe is your acceptance of the condition of the property. If your property manager does not provide a document of this nature, you can always take photos of the property at move-in and email them to your property manager so that you both have documentation of the condition of the property.