2.
While you’re living in the property, take care of the property. Keep on top of the cleaning. Call in maintenance issues. Don’t let things sit and cause more damage. Try to avoid letting your new puppy chew up the corners of walls or doors or letting your kids run their hands up and down the hallway walls.
3.
When you decide it is time to move, request a pre-move out walk through. Ask what the owner or property manager are going to be looking for when they do their final walk through. Review your documentation from when you moved in. Ask if they have recommended cleaning tips.
4.
Review your contract requirements. Are you required to get the carpets cleaned, can you call your own company? Are you required to change the air filter? If items were noted in your lease make sure the items remain in the house and are easily located. Most rent continues until the keys are turned in, so remember to contact the landlord, property owner or the Property Manager on your last day. Whether you are to turn the keys in personally to them or lock them in the house, be clear in your communication.
5.
Remove all your possessions and trash from the property. If you hire a cleaner, walk through the property and check their work. Don’t forget to look up, remember those ceiling fans. Remember a couple of holes in the walls from hanging pictures are wear and tear anything else might be considered damage. If your holes are excessive take care while patching, patch the hole, not the area around it.
6.
Finally, provide your forwarding address to the Property owner, landlord or
Property Manager. It will make it much easier to return your Security deposit if they know where to send it.