One of the most common causes for Chicago landlord vs. tenant disputes is the deposit. There are a number of different deposits you may have to put down before you move in and you may not get all of them back when you move out. Knowing ahead of time what you can expect will help you head off potential problems with your landlord.Here’s what you should know:
Your security deposit is sometimes used in place of a damage deposit. Some special considerations apply only to a security deposit, though. Refunding of this deposit can sometimes be time sensitive; you have to remain in the apartment or rental property for a specified period of time before the deposit comes back to you. Sometimes it will not be refunded at all, if you’ve caused damage to the apartment or didn’t mention existing damage when you moved in (this will be charged to you).
A cleaning deposit is sometimes required and is rarely refunded. This deposit covers painting and cleaning that must be done when you leave. You should still leave the apartment as clean as possible when moving out, though, to keep the landlord as a good reference.
A damage deposit is sometimes required separately from the security deposit, but it will depend on the area you’re moving into. This must be refunded to you by law, unless you have caused damage to the apartment that must be repaired. This is where it is extremely important to make the landlord aware of an existing damage to the apartment before you take possession of it.
Knowing the amount and types of deposit ahead of time will help you save trouble and disputes with your landlord.
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