How to get your security deposit back when moving out
When you are moving out you want to get your security deposit back as soon as possible. Not only will you have one less care on your mind, but you can also use it for the deposit on your next rental apartment. In cases where you and your landlord are on good terms, getting it back should not be a problem. However, some landlords tend to delay giving it back or even outright refuse. While this is unpleasant, there are certain steps you can take to get it back. Additionally, moving out is stressful even when your landlord is not causing you problems, so contact Golan’s Moving & Storage to make that part easy.
Plan In Advance
As with most things in life, if you plan ahead it will be easier to get your deposit back. Before you leave, check the applicable laws on the notice to end tenancy – it is 30 days in most states. Without giving proper notice, the landlord can decide that you own extra rent and take it out of your deposit. Just to make sure, you can have the notice signed and notarized, and send it by certified mail. If you forget to hand in the notice, you can find another person to rent the apartment instead of you. That way you won’t be on the hook for overdue rent. Because you are leaving your apartment, it is wise to have storage units prepared and moving supplies ready. Moving boxes Chicago provides both moving supplies and storage units, at short notice.
Ready Your Apartment To Get the Deposit Back
There is a multitude of reasons why a landlord may decide to keep your deposit. Not all of them are valid, but some are. Depending on your lease agreement, you may need to fix any problems that may have occurred during your stay to get your security deposit back. Take pictures or videos of the items you fix as a backup. Additionally, you need to clean your apartment before leaving. Check with your landlord what is expected. There is no need to overdo it. When you think the apartment is ready and you can leave, invite your landlord for inspection, but make sure that you are with them while they inspect it.
In some states, the landlord can keep the deposit until the apartment is empty. Pack and remove all of the smaller items in advance yourself. For furniture and other large items, it is easiest to hire furniture movers Chicago to do it for you. Once everything has been fixed and all items removed, you should document everything once again. Take pictures and videos, and bring a friend to witness. On the off chance that the landlord doesn’t return your deposit and it goes to court, you will have enough evidence to make your case.
Let the Landlord Know You are Serious
Most landlords will return your deposit if everything with the rental is in good order. However, if they do plan on cheating you, making them aware that you intend to take steps to get your security deposit back will likely discourage them. Deposit returns are governed by law and landlords can face large fines if they do not comply. Let them know that you are aware of the local laws and you should have no trouble getting your deposit back. Worst case scenario, hire a lawyer to sort it out. We hope it doesn’t come to that. Good luck with getting your deposit back!