Security Deposit - what to take out

[Jody Davis]

What do you guys typically take out when returning deposit to tenant, assuming no expenses for damages beyond normal wear and tear? Such as cleaning, and the like. I'm struggling to find information on this. Thanks a lot.

[Jim Adrian]

You should have a "Condition of Property Assessment" article in your lease.  This defines values of fees for the items.  Here is my basic list. Excuse the formatting from cut and paste from Word.

Assigned Assessments:(if applicable)Assessment Charge:

1. All fuses to be working and properly sized$2-5
2. Refrigerator to be clean$75
3. Range/Oven to be clean$75
4. Bath/s to be clean$25 per fixture
5. Painting of Woodwork fee$30/sq ft
6. Garage to be cleaned out of trash & swept out$25
7. Driveway to be clean of oil and debris$25-50
8. Gutters to be cleaned$75
9. Yard to be mowed & trimmed properly including shrubs/bushes$40+
10. Walks & drive to be clear of ice and snow$50
11. Furnace filter/s to be replaced$50/filter
12. Humidifier filter/s to be replaced$30/filter
13. All light fixtures are to have the proper sized working light bulbs$10/bulb
14. House to be in good clean condition$100-200
15. Attic Ventilation – Repair (per Care of Premises)$200+ minimum
16. All trash to be removed and hauled out$25-cost
17. All keys to be returned$10/key
18. Carpet replacement$15 sq yard
19. Carpets to be professionally cleaned$75+
20. Carpet stain removal$15/stain
21. Basic Labor Hourly rate for repairs$30 per person
22. Plaster wall repairs ie nail holes and etc$25/hr
23. Drain lines pluggedAt cost