If you're moving out of your apartment, getting your security deposit back can help offset the cost of movers and relocation. It's easy to lose out on a chunk of cash by making common mistakes that allow your landlord to keep some or all of the deposit. To get back as much back as possible with the smallest amount of hassle, you should follow these steps.

How You Can Get Your Security Deposit Back

1. Educate Yourself

There are limitations on what your landlord can and can't charge for when you move out. First, read your lease and see whether any move-out requirements are listed, so you can avoid being charged for them. Also, look up local laws that may work in your favor. For instance, in Ohio, your landlord has to return your security deposit with an itemized list of any deductions within 30 days of the end of your lease. If they fail to do this, you may be entitled to the full amount back, plus an additional penalty.

2. Clean Thoroughly

One of the costs frequently taken from the deposit is the cost of professional cleaning after you move out. You can avoid this by doing the cleaning yourself or hiring a professional of your choice whose services cost less than your landlord would charge. If necessary, you and your movers can move your belongings into storage a little before your move-out date so you can vacuum and scrub underneath and behind those areas.

3. Document

Ideally, you should have completed a move-in sheet and taken pictures of the condition of the apartment when you moved in, especially any visible wear or damage. This will help prove whether you're responsible for preexisting damages. Even if you didn't document at that time, you can still do a final walkthrough with your landlord and get their signature on a list of damages and charges, which will allow you to dispute anything extra they attempt to add.

If you need movers in Fairfield, OH, contact Bell Moving & Storage. Serving the Cincinnati, Dayton, and Columbus regions, they are a fourth-generation family-owned professional moving company in operation for almost 100 years. They pride themselves on integrity and customer service. To get a free consultation, call them at (513) 942-7500, or visit them online to learn more about the movers.