If you’re like most military renters, you’re anxiously anticipating the full return of your security deposit. Often equal to one or two months’ rent, this isn’t a small amount. Many military families count on that chunk of change to help fund their next PCS move, secure a new rental, or even put toward a down payment. With so much on the line, it’s worth doing everything you can to get it all back.
The simplest way to see your security deposit safely back to your bank account is to make it easy for your landlord (while being mindful of your tenant’s rights) to sign off on your move-out documents, and they’ll happily write your check.
You can do this by following the lease instructions to the letter and fulfilling your move-out responsibilities. If you’re proactive, you’ll increase your chances of walking away with the entire deposit amount and avoid deductions.
A couple of months before your lease term ends or you anticipate PCS orders, it’s a smart idea to review the lease’s move-out procedures. You probably haven’t thought about the lease terms since you signed them years ago, so there’s a good chance security deposit instructions are spelled out, and all you need to do is follow the instructions.
If they’re not clear, spend some time researching your state’s landlord/tenant laws so you can have an informed conversation with your landlord when discussing your move-out plans.
These are questions you should consider:
Wow your landlord, and ensure you get your deposit back: 6 Tips for Being a Tenant that Landlords Love.
The checklist, date-stamped corresponding pictures, and video will remind you what the property looked like when you moved in, especially since you and the homeowner signed off on the condition. You don’t want to take the blame for broken items that you inherited.
Again, your lease should specify the number of days your landlord requests for a notice of departure, usually between 30 and 60 days. If it doesn't, refer to your state’s laws for the minimum requirements. Remember, a rental house is a business, and homeowners try to avoid months of zero rental income, so let them in on your details as soon as you’re sure about your plans.
In the case of an unexpected military move, you do have some flexibility if you have to break your lease under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). This federal law allows you to terminate (without penalty) your lease early for military service with orders, but it doesn’t exclude you from all fees. You must pay rent payments for both the month you give notice and for the following month.
If you’re concerned, ask your landlord to stop by the house to point out areas they feel violate "wear and tear" that might lead them to pull money from your deposit to rectify. After their input, you can start cleaning and making minor repairs. This communication helps you and your landlord know what to expect on move-out day.
Pro Tip: Always follow up in writing after conversations with your landlord. Text or email is fine. It creates a paper trail in case of disputes.
If your landlord doesn’t provide you with an updated task list from your lease, you can refer to your move-in and move-out checklists. They sum up the general agreement for cleaning or repairs necessary before moving out. Some leases allow tenants to DIY (in which case, you should allow for several days' worth of cleaning from top to bottom), but others require professionals.
You might have to show receipts from these professionals:
When you’ve finished the move-out clean, take another set of pictures and videos to verify the house's condition when you leave, so there isn’t a dispute about clean-up or disrepair when you request your full security deposit.
Related: Which Repairs Are NOT Your Landlord’s Responsibility?
Assuming you spoke with your landlord multiple times before your last day, there shouldn't be any surprises during your final walkthrough. Together, inspect each room. After your landlord signs the move-out checklist, you can hand over the keys and move on to the next item on your PCS to-do list.
By now, you’ve likely discussed your deposit return with the landlord and know how much you’ll receive and when to expect it. However, if you haven’t, check your lease and state laws about the appropriate documentation and dates.
You may need to send a formal request, along with your new address, to receive it. Most leases allow the landlord 30 days to return the security deposit.
Not sure what that looks like? Here’s a sample security deposit request letter to get you started:
Dear [Landlord's Name],
Per our lease agreement, I’m requesting the return of my $[amount] security deposit. Please send it to my forwarding address at [New Address]. I’ve attached move-out documentation and photos for reference. Thank you!
You do have options if your landlord doesn’t fulfill their legal obligations or you disagree with their deductions. First, try to work out an agreement, like taking on extra cleaning, but get the resolution in writing. Then, if they still haven’t sent your money, you have the option in most states to write an official demand later asking for the deposit and taking your case to small claims court.
Hopefully, because of your diligence, all will go well and you’ll see your deposit soon!