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What Steps Can I Take to Protect My Security Deposit?
When you take occupancy of the apartment, complete a thorough written inventory of the apartment's condition and have the landlord or an impartial witness sign the inventory. Make sure you keep a copy of the inventory. This helps protect you from the landlords claiming you caused pre-existing damage. When you move out, completely and thoroughly clean the apartment. Some landlords provide a checklist outlining the cleaning they expect you to do. Keep all receipts for cleaning supplies and steam-cleaner rentals as evidence. Before you leave, ask the landlord to inspect the premises with you. Complete a move-out ckecklist and make sure the landlord signs and dates it. Use an impartial witness if the landlord is not available or refuses your request. Move-in and move-out photographs or videotape are also strongly recommended in case there is a dispute.