When you are ready to move out, make sure to remove all your belongings and trash from the home. You do not need to pay a professional cleaner, but it's a good idea to leave the home “broom clean” by sweeping or vacuuming before you leave. It's a good idea to leave the home as clean as it was when you moved in.

Ask your landlord to inspect your home with you. This way you will know about any possible problems the landlord may bring up when you ask for your deposit back.

Remember, you are only responsible for damage to the home beyond “beyond normal wear and tear.”

Whether or not your landlord joins you, you might want to walk through the home and take pictures and notes. You can have someone else with you as a witness. You may want to have a witness if your landlord doesn't join you.

Write a letter to your landlord to tell them the date that you moved out. Give them the address where they can send your security deposit. Keep a copy of the letter.