For Parents
Q: Is there anything that my son or daughter can do to make sure s/he gets a full security deposit back when s/he moves out?
A: A security deposit is money that protects landlords against damage beyond normal wear and tear, provides a remedy for unpaid rent, and funds clean up of the rental, if necessary. When moving in, the best way to protect the security deposit is to take pictures of EVERYTHING—including the inside of appliances, ceilings, walls, floors, hallways, etc. If a video recorder is available, it is also a good idea to videotape the condition of the apartment when moving in. Another suggestion is to complete a detailed list of all damages present in the unit when moving in. An apartment condition checklist is available here.
It is important to be very detailed—things such as nail holes in the walls, burns in the carpet, and cracks in the windows could all lead to a deduction from the security deposit if it can’t be proven that they were there when your son or daughter originally moved in. Your son or daughter can either send this checklist to the landlord after s/he moves in (return receipt to prove it was received), or complete the checklist with the landlord present. Either way, be sure s/he keeps a dated copy. After your son or daughter moves out, designate a member of the house to keep this information. Often your son or daughter won’t be aware that the security deposit has been withheld until after everyone has left town.