We have found more misunderstandings arise concerning security deposits than any other factor in tenant-management relations.  We feel it best to let you know under what conditions that you can expect your deposit back in full.  The property must be left in the same or better condition as when leased to you.  The following provisions must have been met:

1. Full term of lease has expired.
2. A full notice, as stated in your lease, was given prior to leaving the property.
3. No damage to property beyond normal wear and tear.
4. No stickers, scratches, or holes in the walls.
5. No indentations, scratches, rips, or tears in wood or vinyl floors.
6. Carpets must be cleaned and deodorized professionally at tenant's expense, and provide receipt to Shaffer Realty.
7. Fireplace must be cleaned and chimney must be swept by a professional and a receipt provided to Shaffer Realty.

Use this list as your guide to cleaning the property before vacating:

Kitchen

• Defrost and clean refrigerator
• Clean stove & oven
• Clean & mop floor
• Scour sink and fixtures
• Clean cabinets inside and out
• Clean baseboards and chair rails
• Clean closet or pantry shelves

Bathrooms

• Scour bathtubs, sinks, and polish fixtures
• Wash tile walls
• Clean medicine cabinet and shelves
• Clean soap trays, toilet bowl and tank
• Mop and clean floors
• Clean grout and caulk

Living Room

• Clean blinds, baseboards and chair rails
• Clean closets and shelves
• Wash inside of windows and glass doors
• Clear the fireplace of ash or debris

Bedrooms

• Clean closet shelves
• Wash windows inside
• Clean blinds

Patio, Deck & Yard

• Clean, sweep and rake debris.  
• Set out any yard waste at the curb in clear bags.
• Grass and shrubs trimmed
• Flowerbeds weeded

General

• All trash and debris removed
• Had no pets without deposit. (If you were allowed to have a pet in the property, the home must be professionally sprayed for pest and fleas upon your exit. A receipt must be supplied to the Agent as proof of this service.)
• Forwarding address left with agent
• All gutters should be clean and clear
• All keys returned

Q. What charges are made if I do not comply with the above conditions?

A.  The costs of labor and materials for cleaning and repairs.  Delinquent payments, unpaid late charges and any rental fees due if the lease has not expired shall also be deducted from security deposit.

Q. What type of damage should one be especially careful to avoid?

A.  Floor and wall damage.  Departing residents will be held responsible for damage to vinyl and wood floors.  Indentations caused by �?¢??gliders�?¢?? under furniture legs cause extensive damage.  Gouges and holes can be made in walls when moving furniture.  Caution with corners and stairs is advised.

Q. How is the security deposit returned?

A. After completion of final walk-thru with the Agent, your security deposit check will be mailed to your forwarding address.  The check will be made jointly to all persons whom signed the lease.