How much deposit returned?

[Jenelle H.]

Okay so, I am a renter.  Didn't know where to post this, so I posted here.

Been renting a house for 8 years (I know I know, what was a thinking?).  Anyway, I will finally be moving out and I'm wondering what my deposit may look like without having to ask the property manager this awkward question.   

-Deposit amount: 2500

-House built: 2006

-Condition:  Normal wear and tear after 8 years. i.e. dirty carpets, a few scoffs on the wall paint, no holes, nothing else broken or needing replacing.

I've never rented a place this long so I don't know what is customary for a landlord to give back after that much time.  What is the landlord going to do to get the place ready to rent after me?  How much time and money should I put into cleaning the place?  I'm just wondering if they are going to say that since it's been so long, they need to replace the carpets, or paint or something..... and if they say that, should I even bother paying to get the carpets cleaned in order to try to get my deposit back?  What do you think?

Thank you.

[Joe Splitrock]

@Jenelle H. every landlord is different and state laws vary. Here is some useful information:

http://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/landlordbook/se...

I would have the carpet professionally cleaned and give them a copy of the receipt. If the landlord determines it needs to be replaced, they cannot charge you full value. They can only charge the prorated amount of the remaining useful life. You could make the argument that 11 year old carpet is beyond it's useful life. Paint will usually not last 11 years. Assuming you cleaned any dirt from the walls, they really shouldn't charge you anything for painting.

After 8 years, wear and tear is expected. Just make sure the house is really clean. Anything they deduct must be documented and there are legal time lines they must follow. Understand your rights and if you feel the landlord isn't complying, relay that in a respectful manner.

For me, I like to see that the tenant made a good effort. That means no junk or garbage left behind. Everything must be cleaned, including vents, switch plates, windows, behind appliances, garage, no odors, etc. One option is to hire a professional service to clean. I use one that has a 24 hour call back guarantee. Have your landlord walk through and point out anything the service needs to come back and address. This will show them that you are serious about leaving the house in great condition.

Since you called this your home for 8 years, I would work hard leave the landlord on good terms. You never know when you will need them as a reference. Communicate with them about their expectations. Tell them you want all your deposit back and ask what they need you to do. Don't demand it at your right, ask how you can leave the property in good condition, so they can get it rented quickly. Show that you are concerned about their welfare and they will appreciation that.