Protect your deposit.
Avoid costly renter mistakes.
Deluxe Renter helps you document your apartment properly, spot issues early, and avoid the common mistakes that can cost renters money when it’s time to move out.
What this guide covers
The smartest ways to protect your deposit
Most deposit problems come down to poor documentation, forgotten damage notes, or last-minute move-out mistakes. These simple habits can help protect you.
Take photos immediately
Photograph every room, wall, floor, appliance, fixture, and any existing scratches, stains, cracks, or dents before you unpack.
Write down existing damage
Make a list of everything you notice, even small cosmetic issues. Tiny problems often become big arguments later if they are not documented.
Keep communication in writing
Save emails, messages, repair requests, and any written approval from management so you have a record if questions come up later.
Do a real move-out clean
A rushed move-out is one of the easiest ways to lose part of your deposit. Focus on floors, appliances, bathrooms, and visible buildup.
Mistakes that can cost you money
Most renters do not lose money because of one huge issue. It is usually a stack of small mistakes that add up.
Skipping move-in photos
If you do not capture the condition of the unit right away, it becomes much harder to prove what was already there.
Not reporting issues early
Delaying reports about leaks, damage, or broken fixtures can make it look like the problem happened on your watch.
Losing paperwork and receipts
Keep records of cleaning, repairs, and communication so you are not relying on memory when questions come up.
Leaving damage undocumented
Small holes, scuffs, broken blinds, and stains are easy to ignore until move-out charges start showing up.
Doing a rushed move-out clean
Grease, dust, bathroom residue, and dirty appliances are common reasons renters lose money at the end of a lease.
Not doing a final walkthrough
A final walkthrough helps you catch missed damage, forgotten belongings, and areas that still need attention.
What to document to protect yourself
Use this checklist at move-in and again before move-out so you have a clear record of the unit’s condition.
At move-in
- Walls, paint marks, dents, and nail holes
- Floors, carpet stains, scratches, and chips
- Windows, locks, screens, and blinds
- Appliances, burners, fridge shelves, and handles
- Bathroom fixtures, tile, caulking, and water pressure
- Doors, trim, baseboards, and light switches
- Any odors, visible dirt, or unfinished repairs
Before move-out
- Fresh photos of every room after cleaning
- Appliance interiors and exterior condition
- Bathroom cleanliness and fixture condition
- Walls, floors, doors, and any repaired areas
- Proof that personal belongings are removed
- Cleaning receipts or repair receipts if applicable
- Final communication and key return details