Checking out of your shared house

Finished your studies and getting ready to head home? Or perhaps to a new property in another town? Either way, you will be keen to ensure you receive your deposit back in full and there are steps you can take to try and achieve this. Hopefully you will have returned your signed inventory when you moved into the property – it is this document that will be used to complete the check out inspection so any comments you may have made will be taken into consideration.

Firstly, be aware of any damage or dilapidations you may have caused during your tenancy and try to rectify them before you leave. Perhaps you have damaged an item of furniture or stained the carpet in your room? If so, see if you can repair the damage yourself and engage a professional cleaner to remove the stain. If something is missing, see if you are able to replace it.

Secondly, ensure you remove all of your belongings from both your room and any shared areas, this includes getting rid of any rubbish and ensuring the bins are emptied and cleaned. Food should be removed from the fridge, freezer and cupboards and all cleaning products should also be removed or you may incur a charge for someone else to remove them. If it’s not on your inventory, it shouldn’t be there!

Finally, you should clean, clean and clean again! You could perhaps get together with your fellow housemates and split the cost of a professional clean – most reputable agents and landlords would be happy to advise and provide contact details if you choose to do this. Here at OpenArch we are happy to provide further advice should you require it, just contact us via [email protected] or on 01223 664200 to speak to one of our team.

Most of all, good luck with your future, wherever it may take you!