Deposit

Deposit....?

Hi, I am about to move out of my first apartment into another one and I put down a $200 deposit when I moved in. I plan on fixing any repairs such as a missing blind that was missing when I first moved in. My apartment is in good condition and the carpet is in good condition as well. How does this deposit thing work? I lost my gate entrance card which is 50 dollars to replace. I was just going to tell them to take this out of the deposit I paid. Anyone know how this process works? Thanks! :)

Public Comments

1. First, did the manager do a walk through and note the condition of the apartment when you moved in? You should always request this, and have you and the manager both sign it. Get a copy! In case you didn't, it may not be a big deal. Before you give the keys back, request a walk through, then get a SIGNED statement from the manager on the move-out condition. The manager should tell you of anything you may be charged for. Make sure you BOTH sign the inspection, AND insist that you include your forwarding address on the signed inspection. (Most landlords use the excuse that they did not have a forwarding address for not returning deposits). Most all states require that the renter be given a deposit refund and/or statement regarding how their deposit was used within 30 days of move out. You rental agreement/lease should indicate whether or not any portion of your deposit will be retained for carpet cleaning, ect. You may have to pay up front for the lost card. Some landlords will not take it out of you deposit, but you can ask at the walk through. Check your state laws regarding deposit refunds. (And all other landlord/tenant law!). Usually a google search for landlord/tenant law/your state will bring it up for you!
2. In Michigan there is a renters act..that sets out a required procedure There is a "check in" check out list. The check in list is a detailed statement of the condition of the apt when you moved in. so if the blind was missing you do not have to replace it.. Typically a landlord should not bill you for normal wear.. However, tears in the carpet, holes in the walls (even nail holes from pictures), smoke damage from smoking, may cost $$$, etc. A landlord must have a check in list showing the condition when you moved in-- and provide you with a check out list showing the condition after you moved out and the damages if any -- to charge against your deposit for ANY of condition issues or he must return the entire deposit to you. He probably can charge you for $50 card and any rent you may owe without this procedure.