how to protect your deposit before moving out
That blue wall story wasn’t unique. Many tenants lose hundreds or even thousands of dollars when they move out — sometimes over the smallest details.
Here are a few things people told me they wish they had done differently:
Document everything 📸
Take photos of every room before you move in and before you move out. Walls, carpets, appliances, even the inside of the oven.
Ask in writing 📝
If you want to paint, hang shelves, or make changes, always get permission by email or text. Verbal approval won’t save you later.
Do your own cleaning 🧽
Hire a professional cleaner or at least deep-clean yourself. A receipt for cleaning service makes it harder for landlords to charge “extra cleaning.”
Don’t ignore small repairs 🔧
Fix nail holes, replace burnt-out bulbs, patch scuffs. It costs little now, but landlords often exaggerate charges for these things.
Know your state laws ⚖️
Some states limit how much landlords can deduct, and some require them to provide receipts. Knowing the rules makes it easier to fight back.
Losing $1500 over a wall is frustrating. But with preparation, you don’t have to give landlords an easy excuse.
#House #TenantRights #RentHacks #HousingCost
