Moving out of your rental place? We know it can be a bit overwhelming, but being in with the best chance to get your full deposit back doesn’t have to be!

Follow these simple steps to ensure you leave your rental accommodation in tip-top shape and maximize your chances of getting that deposit back in full.

 

1. CHECK YOUR LEASE AGREEMENT: First things first, dig out your lease agreement and give it a good read. It’ll tell you what’s expected of you when moving out. Look for any specific instructions like carpet cleaning or painting. Missing these can mean deductions from your deposit.

 

2. CHECK YOUR INVENTORY: Before you start going check to see how the property was given to you & mirror this when you leave – It’s the best way to avoid any unfair claims later on.

 

3. CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN!: Time to roll up your sleeves and get cleaning! Our advice is to hire a commercial cleaner.  All our properties are move-in ready because we use a commercial cleaner, your clean will be compared to this.  Keep your receipts.

Here’s a very quick checklist of the most obvious stops to hit:

  • Kitchen: Clean the oven, stovetop, microwave, and fridge. Wipe down the cabinets, countertops, and sink. All appliances should be deep cleaned.
  • Bathrooms: Scrub the toilet, shower, bathtub, and sink. Don’t forget the mirrors and to check for mold or mildew.
  • Living Areas and Bedrooms: Dust & clean everything – including baseboards and light fixtures. Vacuum carpets and mop any hard floors.
  • Windows: Clean them inside and out.
  • Walls and Doors: Remove any marks or scuffs

 

4. FIX ANY DAMAGE: Did you put up shelves or hang pictures? Make sure you fill any holes and patch up small dents or scratches. Fix anything that you might have damaged during your stay. Doing these repairs well properly can save you money.

 

5. CHECK APPLIANCES & FIXTURES: Ensure all appliances are working and let your landlord know if anything isn’t. Replace any burnt-out light bulbs and make sure smoke detectors have fresh batteries.

 

6. CLEAR OUT YOUR STUFF: Take all your belongings with you – don’t leave anything behind! This includes furniture, personal items, and trash. Leaving stuff behind can lead to extra charges for disposal.

 

7. RETURN KEYS AND GIVE YOUR NEW ADDRESS: Make sure to return all keys, garage openers, and access cards on the day your lease ends.


8. ASK FOR YOUR DEPOSIT BACK: Finally, request your deposit back via Safe Deposit Scotland.  Make sure you read about timelines for deposit returns, for example, we have 30 working days to submit any initial deductions.  Knowing how long the process can take can help alleviate any additional stress you may have!

By following these tips, you can leave your rental home in great shape and boost your chances of getting your full deposit back.

Good luck with your move, and here’s to a smooth transition to your next adventure!