Renter guide
Move-Out and Security Deposit Checklist
A practical checklist to reduce move-out surprises and document deposit fairness.
Before move-in
Take photos, save walkthrough notes, and document existing damage before furniture arrives.
During the lease
Save repair requests, responses, photos, receipts, and any written approvals. Deposit fights are usually about documentation, not memory.
Before move-out
Ask for cleaning expectations, repair expectations, key return rules, paint rules, carpet rules, trash rules, and the deadline for deposit accounting.
Move-out photos
Photograph every room, appliance, wall, floor, window, bathroom, closet, parking space, key return, and any area that was disputed during move-in.
After move-out
Keep receipts, photos, emails, and any written explanation of deductions. Compare deductions against your move-in and move-out evidence.
Share what happened
If the deposit process was fair, say so. If it was confusing or surprising, explain what future renters should document before signing.