How to Get Your Full Security Deposit Back

1. Take Photos Before You Move In

Before you even unpack a single box, take a few minutes to walk around your new place and snap some photos or record a short video. Open every closet, check behind doors, look at the floors, walls, appliances, windows, and even the ceilings. If you spot any scratches, stains, cracks, or damage, make sure it’s clearly documented. You don’t have to be a professional photographer. Just use your phone and make sure the pictures are clear and saved somewhere you won’t lose them.

Why is this so important? Because when you move out, your landlord will check the condition of the place. If something looks damaged and you don’t have proof it was already like that when you moved in, they might assume it was your fault. These photos are your backup. They help protect you from being charged for things you didn’t do.

2. Don’t Leave Anything Behind

When moving out, it’s not just about taking your boxes and furniture. You need to make sure the place is completely cleared out. That means no trash in the bins, no food in the fridge, and no random things left in drawers, closets, or cabinets. Even if it seems small, like an old broom or a few hangers, just take it with you or toss it out properly.

Some landlords charge cleanup fees if they have to deal with any leftover stuff. Those little charges can easily be taken out of your deposit. So before you leave, walk through every room with a trash bag and make sure the place is as empty as the day you moved in.

3. Clean Like You’re Trying to Impress

No one loves cleaning, but this is the time to do it right. You want the place looking fresh and ready for the next tenant.

Here’s a quick list to help:

• Scrub the bathroom from top to bottom
• Wipe down kitchen counters, cabinets, and appliances
• Clean inside the oven and fridge
• Dust shelves, baseboards, and window sills
• Vacuum and mop all the floors
• Take out the last bag of trash before you leave

The cleaner it looks, the better your chances of getting that full deposit back.

4. Pay All Your Rent and Bills

Before you move out, make sure all your bills are paid. That includes your final month’s rent, plus any utility bills or small charges you might owe. It’s easy to forget a water bill or trash fee when you’re focused on moving, but those small things can turn into deductions from your deposit.

Go over your lease and your payment history. If anything looks unpaid, settle it before handing in your keys. Even if you think you’re all set, it’s worth double-checking. Your landlord can take any unpaid amount straight from your deposit without even asking first.

5. Fix the Small Stuff

You don’t need to be a handyman, but it helps to fix the little things.

Look around the place and take care of things like:

• Patching small holes from nails or tacks
• Replacing burned out light bulbs
• Tightening loose handles or knobs
• Cleaning up small scuff marks on the walls

These simple fixes show that you took care of the place. And they can help avoid extra charges later.

6. Ask for a Walkthrough

One of the smartest things you can do is ask your landlord for a final walkthrough before you officially move out. Don’t just drop off the keys and disappear. Be there in person if you can.

This gives your landlord a chance to point out anything that still needs attention. Maybe there’s a spot you forgot to clean or a small repair you missed. If they catch it during the walkthrough, you’ll have a chance to take care of it instead of being charged for it later. It’s a simple step that shows you’re being responsible and can really help you avoid unexpected deductions from your deposit.