Pre-Move Out Checklist: Protect Your Security Deposit

Re-read your lease’s move-out section

Look for specific requirements: notice periods, cleaning standards (“broom clean” vs. professional cleaning), key return procedures, and forwarding address requirements. Missing a single clause is how landlords justify deductions.

Send written notice — even if you already called

A dated email or letter confirming your move-out date, forwarding address, and deposit return expectations creates a paper trail. In many states the deposit return clock does not start until the landlord has your forwarding address in writing.

Document the unit condition with photos and video

Do a thorough walkthrough with timestamps visible. Photograph every room, appliance, floor surface, wall, window, and fixture. Email the photos to yourself so the date is independently verifiable.

Compare against your move-in condition report

If you filed one at the start of your tenancy, pull it up now. Pre-existing damage should be noted and compared. If you never received one, note that — some states limit what landlords can deduct without a move-in report.

Handle minor repairs yourself

Fill small nail holes with spackle, replace burned-out bulbs, remove adhesive residue, clean stovetop drip pans. A $15 trip to the hardware store can prevent a $200 deduction on your statement.

Do a thorough clean

Clean the oven, refrigerator (inside and behind), bathroom grout, window tracks, and blinds. Many disputes center on cleaning charges that far exceed what it would have cost you to do it yourself.

Do a final walkthrough — ideally with the landlord

Request that the landlord or property manager join you for a final inspection. Get their sign-off in writing if possible. If they refuse or are unavailable, take date-stamped video of the entire unit.

Return all keys, fobs, and remotes

Return every access item listed in your lease and get written confirmation. Missing keys can trigger lock-change charges that are hard to dispute later.

Confirm your forwarding address in writing

Send an email or letter with your new address. Keep a copy. This is the single most overlooked step — and the one landlords most often use to justify delays.

Mark your calendar with the statutory deadline

Look up your state’s return window and set a reminder. If the deadline passes with no refund or itemized statement, you have grounds for a formal demand.

Send a formal deposit demand if the deadline passes

A dated written demand letter referencing your state’s statute is the standard first step before small claims. It puts the landlord on notice and creates documentation courts look for.

Keep everything organized

Your lease, move-in report, photos, written communications, and any receipts should be in one folder. If you need to escalate, this file is your case.