The return of your security deposit begins the day you move out. Before you move any furniture or personal items into the space, grab a notepad and camera and go through the apartment thoroughly. Document anything that looks like damage. It’s helpful to use a camera that automatically dates photos or, if you’re using a video camera, clearly state the date and time at the beginning of the video. Don’t wait to send this to your landlord. Give your landlord the paperwork right away. This will alleviate any misunderstanding that might otherwise occur at the end of the lease as to when the damage occurred. It also shows the landlord that you are serious about getting your security deposit back.
When you move out, you must repair the damage yourself. This could be as small as putting caulking in the holes in the walls where you hung pictures, or winding your shower drain. Give the apartment a very deep clean. Make sure the landlord has your mailing address and, if necessary, the mailing addresses of your roommates.
Your landlord must return your security deposit, often with interest, within a certain time period designated by your lease and by the laws of the state in which you live. Your landlord is entitled to keep any amount needed to repair damage beyond normal wear and tear, or pay any debt related to the lease. If the deposit has not been returned with interest by the time specified in your lease, or an explanation to the contrary has not been sent, send a certified letter to the landlord. If the landlord does not return your security deposit on time, you will have to take it to small claims court to challenge the penalty. Many cities have free legal services for people who are having problems with their landlord, and a quick Google search will show you the best resources for going to small claims court.
