Arguing over a security deposit

[Brandon Penn]

So It's a discussion I've had with so many people on both sides of the table. I don't know why, but there always seems to be a lot of confusion about whether a tenant deserves their deposit back or not. I've seen it on both sides where the landlord is just nit picking and is going way past reasonable deductions, and tenants that are so far out there that don't realize they are going to be charged when they leave dog poop on the carpet for the landlord to clean up. I think a lot of the issue though comes down to communication. I'm not an expert by any means but I do manage between 500-600 apartments and I usually I don't have a lot of fight from a tenant when I deduct from their Deposit. I credit that to having a clear and outlined checklist for the tenant to follow during move out to insure they get their full deposit back. 

-All walls must be wiped clean, with any holes whether they be nail, screw, tack, or punch hole patched AND painted.

-All carpet must be washed, free of stains, and no odor left

-Locks must be in good repair and key's returned to the owner along with a forwarding address of where you are moving to.

-Windows, countertops, stove, oven, refrigerator, bathtubs, toilets, sinks, and cabniets must me wiped down, clean, and fresh.

-No holes in any doors, walls, or ceilings

-Fire alarms and CO2 detectors in good working order

-Lightbulbs working, and all light fixtures in good repair.

There are other things that I will sometimes look at but for the most part this is a good punch list to insure getting your full deposit back. I always charge $85 per hour for my time when calculating what to deduct from a deposit. I would love to know what you guys think. Is there anything that suprises you if you are a tenant? Is there anything you would add or do differently if you are an owner? Let me know in the comments!

[Christine Kankowski]

Yup, I agree that clear communication is key.  We also have 200 photos of the home prior to move in so we can clearly show the damage we are charging for was not there upon movein.  For example, the door that was cracked in 2, is shows to be in beautiful condition at their movein.   no questions once I provide a photo...

We also provide a nice detailed letter upon moveout indicating what was done for them prior to their move in and needs to be done prirot o their move out.  - similar to your list above.    WE do include fees for removal of personal items, including excess trash.