
Renting in Modesto and Stanislaus County can be a great experience—until it’s time to move out and get your security deposit back. Landlords are required by law to return your deposit within 21 days of moving out, along with an itemized list of deductions if any money is withheld. However, the best way to ensure you get your full deposit back is to leave your rental in excellent condition. This guide will walk you through the legal requirements, cleaning process, and repairs you should make before handing over the keys.
California Security Deposit Laws You Should Know
Under California Civil Code Section 1950.5, landlords can deduct from your deposit only for:
Unpaid rent
Damage beyond normal wear and tear
Cleaning costs to return the unit to the same level of cleanliness as when you moved in
Repairs due to tenant-caused damage (excluding normal aging or depreciation)
Carpet and Paint: When Can a Landlord Charge You?
You are required to have carpets professionally cleaned. Landlords often try to deduct for new carpet and paint, but California law restricts this:
Carpet: The expected lifespan of carpet is 8-10 years. If your carpet is older than that, the landlord cannot charge you for replacement.
Paint: Interior paint is expected to last 3-5 years. If you've lived in the unit for more than three years, landlords generally cannot charge for full repainting, only touch-ups where damage is excessive.
If deductions are made, the landlord must provide receipts or invoices for any repair or cleaning charges exceeding $125.
Step 1: General Cleaning (Top to Bottom, Back to Front)
The best strategy for cleaning is to start at the top and work your way down. This prevents dust and dirt from falling onto already cleaned areas. Additionally, begin at the back of the house (bathrooms and bedrooms) and work towards the front door to avoid tracking dirt back into cleaned spaces.
Cleaning Checklist:
Ceilings & Fans: Dust and remove cobwebs.
Walls & Baseboards: Wipe down with a mild cleaner.
Windows & Ledges: Clean windows inside and out, wipe down sills and tracks.
Light Fixtures & Switches: Remove dust and clean around switches.
Kitchen:
Clean out cabinets, drawers, and shelves (wipe inside and out).
Degrease stove, oven, range hood, and microwave.
Scrub sink and faucet, ensuring no hard water stains remain.
Wipe down fridge, removing all food and cleaning inside and underneath.
Bathrooms:
Scrub toilet, sink, tub, and shower.
Remove soap scum and hard water buildup.
Clean mirrors and fixtures.
Floors:
Vacuum carpets.
Mop tile, laminate, or hardwood floors.
Forgotten Areas:
Clean door handles and locks.
Wipe down closet shelves and rods.
Scrub out washer/dryer areas.
Check for hidden grime behind appliances.
Step 2: Minor Repairs to Maximize Your Deposit Return
Before leaving, fix any minor damage you may have caused:
Fill Nail Holes: Use spackle or a toothpaste-baking soda mix for small holes.
Touch-Up Paint: Cover any scuffs or marks.
Repair Screens: If window screens are torn, patch them up.
Fix Door Handles & Cabinet Knobs: Tighten loose screws.
Replace Burned-Out Light Bulbs & Batteries: Ensure all bulbs and smoke detectors work.
Step 3: Carpet Cleaning – The Final Touch
The last thing you should do before moving out is carpet cleaning. Dirt from moving furniture and foot traffic can undo your hard work, so leave it until the very end.
Classic Carpet Care’s Signature Touch – Free with Every Cleaning!
If you’re worried about impressing your landlord during the final inspection, Classic Carpet Care in Modesto and Stanislaus County offers professional carpet cleaning with a FREE signature post-cleaning scent to leave your rental smelling fresh. A clean-smelling unit creates a positive first impression, reinforcing that the home is spotless and move-in ready. Do not Cheap Out on this one.. If the carpets do not come out clean enough and the receipt you give your land lord is from a company with bad reviews they may still charge you. Choose a Certified Company with impeccable credentials.
Final Thoughts
Getting your rental deposit back is all about planning ahead and following through on cleaning and repairs. By following these steps and knowing your rights under California law, you can maximize your chances of receiving a full refund. Need professional help with carpet cleaning before you move? Classic Carpet Care in Modesto and Stanislaus County is here to help!
Book a cleaning today and ensure your move-out inspection goes smoothly!
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