One of the biggest concerns for renters when moving out is ensuring they get their security deposit back in full. At Candlewood Property Management LLC, we want to make this process as smooth as possible for our tenants. The key to getting your deposit returned? Planning ahead, leaving your apartment in great condition, and following move-out procedures carefully.
To help, we’ve put together this step-by-step checklist so you know exactly what to do before handing in your keys.
Step 1: Review Your Lease & Move-Out Instructions
Before packing up, read your lease agreement and move-out notice carefully. Your lease outlines:
✅ How much notice you need to provide before moving out
✅ Specific cleaning and repair responsibilities
✅ Key return instructions and final walkthrough details
📢 Reminder: If you haven’t already submitted your move-out notice, do so through your tenant portal or contact our office as soon as possible!
Step 2: Repair & Address Any Damages
Normal wear and tear is expected, but any significant damage beyond that could be deducted from your deposit.
🛠 Check for & Fix:
✔ Holes in walls from nails, screws, or wall mounts (fill with spackle and touch up paint if necessary)
✔ Broken blinds, cabinet doors, or handles
✔ Carpet stains or flooring damage
✔ Scratched or scuffed walls (light marks may come off with a magic eraser!)
📢 Note: If there are maintenance issues that occurred during your lease (like a leaky faucet or broken appliance), submit a maintenance request through your tenant portal.
Step 3: Deep Clean Your Apartment
A deep clean can make the difference between a full or partial deposit refund. Be sure to leave the unit in the same condition as when you moved in!
🧽 Move-Out Cleaning Checklist:
✅ Kitchen – Clean all appliances (inside & out), wipe cabinets, and scrub countertops.
✅ Bathroom – Scrub the toilet, tub/shower, sink, and mirrors. Remove soap scum and any mildew.
✅ Floors – Vacuum and mop thoroughly, including under furniture.
✅ Walls & Baseboards – Wipe down all surfaces and remove scuffs if possible.
✅ Windows & Blinds – Dust and clean windows inside, and wipe blinds gently.
📢 Pro Tip: Don’t forget to defrost the freezer and remove all personal belongings from the apartment before leaving.
Step 4: Check Appliances & Utilities
✔ Empty the fridge and leave it plugged in and on a low setting
✔ Run the garbage disposal one last time
✔ Set the thermostat to a reasonable temperature (especially in winter to prevent pipe freezing)
✔ Turn off all lights and ensure no outlets are left in use
📢 Reminder: If you are responsible for utilities, be sure to cancel or transfer services for your move-out date to avoid extra charges.
Step 5: Take Photos for Documentation
Before handing over the keys, its a best practice to take clear photos or videos of each room as proof of the condition you’re leaving it in. This is a great way to document the condition of the property when you moved out.
📢 Pro Tip: Capture images of appliances, walls, flooring, and any areas where you made repairs or cleaned thoroughly.
Step 6: Return All Keys & Follow Up
Once your apartment is clean and everything is packed up, return all keys, garage openers, and access fobs as instructed by Candlewood Property Management LLC.
Deposit Return Timeline:
💰 Security deposits in Wisconsin are returned within 21 days after move-out, provided there are no outstanding damages or unpaid rent.
Final Thoughts from Candlewood Property Management LLC
We know moving can be stressful, but following these simple steps can ensure a smooth move-out and full return of your deposit.
✔ Need to submit your move-out notice? Do it through your tenant portal.
✔ Notice any maintenance issues? Submit a request before moving out.
✔ Have questions? Reach out to our team—we’re happy to help!
Thank you for renting with Candlewood Property Management LLC! We appreciate our tenants and wish you all the best in your next home. 🏡💙
