Tips – Get back your full rental deposit

When renting a property, one of the biggest concerns for tenants is ensuring the return of their security deposit at the end of the lease.

Being proactive from the start is vital to avoid deductions and secure your entire deposit. Adrian Goslett, the regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, explains that even though the deposit gets paid to the landlord, it remains the tenant’s money.

“The landlord is merely holding the money as a security measure should the tenant default or breach the rental agreement.

“However, the landlord is entitled to deduct from the rental deposit any expenses incurred to repair damages to the property that happened during the tenancy. This can include holes in the walls from picture frames or stains on the carpets, says Goslett.

To help tenants avoid running into any surprises at the end of their lease, RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares some essential tips to help you get back your entire rental deposit.

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• Move-in inspection
Before moving into the property, ensuring that a detailed move-in inspection is done is vital. If the landlord works through a reputable rental agent, they will do it for you.

But, if the landlord does not arrange an inspection at the key handover, then be sure to arrange one yourself, taking photographs of existing damages to the property as evidence they were there before you moved in.

• Regular cleaning
Keep the property clean and in good condition during your tenancy. Be especially mindful of areas prone to damage from dirt build-up, such as kitchens, bathrooms and carpets. To avoid carpet stains, add an area rug in parts of the home prone to spillage (like in the lounge) or avoid eating and drinking in the carpeted spaces.

• Repairing damages
Reporting and fixing any damages that occur during your tenancy are crucial. Immediately notify your landlord about any necessary repairs, especially for leaks or appliance malfunctions. However, if you caused the damage (by hanging a picture on the wall, for example), you must ensure you fix it before you move out.

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• Normal wear and tear
Understanding what qualifies as “normal wear and tear” will help you take extra care where needed. Normal wear and tear is the typical deterioration of a property over time, and landlords are not allowed to charge for this.

However, excessive damage beyond normal wear, such as large stains, broken tiles or holes in the walls, will likely lead to deductions.

• Understanding the reimbursement process
The Rental Housing Act requires landlords to put the money in an interest-bearing account held with a financial institution. The landlord must pay the full deposit and interest to the tenant within seven days of the lease’s expiration date if there is no damage to the property.

Should any disputes arise between the landlord and the tenant about the deposit, Goslett suggests they turn to the province’s rental housing tribunal for help.

“Getting your full rental deposit back does not have to be a struggle. By being proactive, maintaining the property, and staying organised, you can avoid most issues that lead to deductions.

“Always remember that clear communication with your landlord or rental agent and the proper documentation can protect your deposit and ensure a smooth transition at the end of your lease,” Goslett concludes.