Your security deposit is your money — and you should get it back. The key to a full refund is understanding what your landlord or property manager will look for during the move-out inspection and taking a few simple steps before you hand in your keys.

Here's exactly what to do to maximize your chances of getting every dollar back.

Alabama Security Deposit Law: What You Should Know

Under Alabama law, landlords can deduct from your security deposit for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning costs if the property isn't left in a reasonably clean condition. Your landlord has 60 days after you move out to either return your deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions.

The important distinction is between damage and normal wear and tear. Understanding the difference is the key to protecting your deposit.

Normal Wear and Tear vs. Damage

Normal wear and tear is the natural deterioration that happens from living in a home. It's expected, and your landlord cannot deduct for it. Here's how to tell the difference:

Your Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

The number one reason for deposit deductions (after actual damage) is cleaning. A thorough cleaning before you leave can save you hundreds. Here's what we look for:

• Kitchen — clean inside and outside all appliances (oven, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher). Pull the fridge out and clean behind it. Wipe down cabinets inside and out. Clean the range hood and exhaust fan. Scrub the sink and countertops.
• Bathrooms — scrub the tub, shower, toilet (including behind and around the base), and sink. Clean mirrors, medicine cabinets, and exhaust fans. Remove any mold or mildew from grout and caulking.
• Floors — vacuum all carpeted areas. Mop hard floors. Clean along baseboards where dust and pet hair accumulate.
• Walls and ceilings — wipe down any scuffs or marks. Remove all nails, hooks, and adhesive strips. You don't need to patch small nail holes, but anything larger than a standard picture nail should be patched and touched up.
• Windows — clean all window glass, tracks, and sills. Remove any window treatments you installed (unless they were there when you moved in).
• Exterior — if you're responsible for the yard, mow the lawn, trim edges, and remove any personal items from the porch, patio, and garage.
• Trash — remove all personal belongings and trash from the property, including the garage, shed, attic, and outdoor areas. Anything left behind will be removed at your expense.

Before You Turn In Your Keys

1. Do a final walkthrough — walk through every room with your phone and take photos and video. Open every cabinet, closet, and drawer to make sure nothing is left behind.
2. Compare to your move-in photos — if you documented the property's condition when you moved in (and you should have), compare those photos to the current state. This is your best evidence if there's a dispute.
3. Return all keys, garage openers, and access devices — unreturned keys can result in a lock-change charge.
4. Provide your forwarding address — make sure we have your new mailing address so we can send your deposit refund. Email it to info@james-hawkins.com.
5. Cancel or transfer utilities — schedule disconnection of utilities for the day after your lease ends, not before. Turning off utilities early can cause issues (especially HVAC in extreme weather).

What Happens After You Move Out

Once you've turned in your keys, our team will conduct a move-out inspection. We'll compare the property's condition to its documented move-in condition, account for normal wear and tear, and process your deposit refund. Under Alabama law, you'll receive either your full deposit or an itemized statement of any deductions within 60 days.

If you have questions about your deposit status after moving out, contact us at info@james-hawkins.com or (972) 833-1261.