Moving out of a rental property can be an exciting yet stressful experience. While you’re looking forward to a fresh start, there are many steps involved to ensure you leave on good terms with your landlord and avoid unnecessary fees. Whether it’s a security deposit or cleaning charge, moving out can sometimes come with unexpected costs. To help you keep your hard-earned money, we’ve compiled a guide on how to avoid these fees when moving out of a rental.
Understand Your Lease Agreement
Before packing up your belongings, it’s important to review your lease agreement carefully. This is the document that outlines your responsibilities as a tenant and the conditions under which your landlord can charge fees when you move out.
Review the Terms
Your lease will specify what is expected of you when you vacate the property. This includes whether you need to have the property professionally cleaned, if any repairs need to be done, and the notice period required. Ignoring these terms can result in penalties, so make sure you fully understand them.
Security Deposit and Deductions
The security deposit is typically used to cover any damage or outstanding rent. However, many landlords will charge extra fees for things like cleaning or repainting if the apartment isn’t left in pristine condition. Familiarize yourself with the rules governing security deposit deductions to avoid surprises.
Clean Thoroughly Before You Leave
One of the most common fees charged when moving out is for cleaning. Many tenants overlook this, thinking a basic sweep is enough, but rental properties need to be cleaned to a very high standard. To avoid cleaning charges, here are some tips:
Clean Everything
Make sure to clean all surfaces, including walls, floors, and windows. Dust light fixtures, baseboards, and ceiling fans. Vacuum carpets and clean under furniture. Kitchens and bathrooms require extra attention—scrub the countertops, sinks, and bathtubs, and clean the inside of appliances like the oven and refrigerator.
Consider Hiring a Cleaning Service
If you don’t have the time or energy to clean your rental to a professional standard, hiring a cleaning service may be worth the investment. You’ll likely save money compared to what the landlord might charge for cleaning services, and it can ensure you get your full security deposit back.
Repair Damages
Another common fee is for repairs. If the landlord finds any damage to the property, they may charge you for repairs, even if the damage is minor. To avoid these fees, make sure you repair any damages before you leave.
Small Repairs
Check for things like holes in the walls from picture hangings, scuffs on the floor, or a leaky faucet. Small repairs can easily be done yourself with a little effort. Patch up any holes with spackling paste, and repaint any areas where the color may have been scratched or worn away.
Professional Repairs
If you encounter significant damage, such as a broken appliance or significant flooring issues, it might be best to consult a professional repair service. In some cases, the cost of repairs could be more than the amount deducted from your security deposit.
Provide Proper Notice
Failing to give proper notice is a surefire way to incur fees when moving out. Most leases require tenants to provide written notice 30 days before moving out. If you fail to give adequate notice, your landlord may charge you additional rent for the period they could not rent the property.
Check the Notice Period
Before moving out, check how much notice you need to give your landlord. If your lease requires a 30-day notice, make sure you send it in writing well ahead of time. Email, text messages, or phone calls may not be considered valid unless specified in your lease agreement.
Take Photos of the Property
One of the best ways to avoid disputes about the condition of your rental property is to document everything with photos.
Photographic Evidence
Before you leave, take clear, dated photos of each room. Focus on areas that could be potential points of contention, such as flooring, walls, and appliances. This photographic evidence can serve as protection in case your landlord tries to claim damage to the property after you’ve moved out.
Create a Checklist
Along with taking photos, create a checklist of items you need to address before you leave. Compare this list to the move-in checklist to ensure everything is covered. This ensures that you don’t miss anything important.
Remove All Personal Belongings
Leaving behind personal items can lead to additional cleaning fees, removal fees, or even the cost of a locksmith if you forget to return the keys.
Check Every Corner
It’s easy to overlook a drawer, closet, or corner of the basement when you’re moving out. Double-check all rooms, including any storage areas or attics. Your goal is to leave the property in the same state as when you moved in, without leaving anything behind.
Don’t Forget the Keys
Remember to return all keys, fobs, and any other items that belong to the landlord. Missing or damaged keys could result in lock replacement fees. You’ll also want to return any garage openers or security codes you were given.
Ensure the Utilities Are Shut Off
Another potential fee when moving out of a rental is for utility bills that remain unpaid after you leave. Make sure that utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and cable are transferred out of your name, or completely shut off.
Contact Utility Providers
Notify the utility companies in advance of your move-out date. Confirm that all outstanding bills are paid and request that your services be terminated or transferred to your new address. Also, ensure that the final meter readings are taken, and if required, provide proof of payment.
Leave the Property in Good Condition
While you’re focused on avoiding fees, it’s also important to leave the property in a condition that ensures your landlord will be happy with your tenancy.
Respect the Property
If you’ve had any issues during your stay, such as noise complaints or parking violations, make sure you’ve handled them before moving out. Leaving on good terms is crucial not just to avoid fees but also to maintain a positive relationship with your landlord for potential future references.
Final Walkthrough with Your Landlord
Once you’ve packed up and cleaned, consider scheduling a final walkthrough with your landlord. This allows you to address any concerns before leaving and gives you the opportunity to clear up any issues that may arise regarding the property’s condition.
Use Professional Movers for a Smooth Transition
A professional moving company can make your transition easier, and potentially avoid the chaos that leads to mistakes like leaving behind items or causing unnecessary damage.
If you’re looking for reliable and efficient movers, Big Bear Movers can help you with a stress-free move. Our professional movers are equipped to handle all types of moving needs, ensuring a smooth transition when moving out of your rental property.
For more information, visit Big Bear Movers.
Conclusion
Moving out of a rental property without incurring any fees requires preparation and attention to detail. From reviewing your lease agreement to ensuring that the property is cleaned and repaired, every step counts in ensuring you leave on good terms with your landlord and avoid unnecessary expenses.
By taking the time to clean thoroughly, repair any damages, and give proper notice, you can increase your chances of getting your full security deposit back. Document everything with photos and check the property for any overlooked personal belongings, and make sure utilities are shut off. Lastly, consider using professional movers like Big Bear Movers to assist with your move, helping you avoid stress and additional costs.