When you move into a rental property you’ll be required to pay a security deposit. This security deposit will be returned to you after you have moved out if there hasn’t been any damage to the property. Keeping the carpets clean will help you get this money back, but keeping carpets clean can be stressful for many renters. Dirty carpets are responsible for the most deductions in a security deposit during move-out inspections. The problem with carpet is that it’s impossible to prevent damage from simple day-to-day living. It’s good to know that there are easy ways to protect carpets to minimize wear and tear and the risk of stains that can result in lost money.

Six Steps to Protect Rental Carpet

1. Identify existing carpet issues. When you move into a rental and notice any problems, you need to document them and bring them to the attention of the landlord or property management. Inspect the entire property and take pictures if needed and if you think the previous owners had pets you should inspect for stains with a black light. The move-in inspection is the time to document previous damage.
2. Protect high-traffic areas. Other than accidents, the day-to-day living activities will cause wear-and-tear on carpets. This will be more noticeable in areas like hallways, entryways and common areas within a property. To reduce the amount of dirt that is tracked into these areas you can make these areas where shoes aren’t allowed. You can also use inexpensive runners or mats in high-traffic areas.
3. Protect carpet in high-risk situations. If you can foresee potential spills, do all you can to keep the carpet safe. If you’re having a party or painting, make sure you cover the area with plastic tarps secured with tape or can use large area rugs that are old.
4. Maintain good carpet maintenance. Make sure you take care of the carpet. Keep spot remover on hand and a good vacuum cleaner. Vacuuming your carpet is the best way to keep it looking good. Vacuum the carpets at least once a week to remove dirt, dust, food and pet hair that get deep into the carpet fibers. It can be hard for professionals to remove this debris if it gets worked in. Clean stains as soon as you see them so they don’t become permanent.
5. Use professionals to clean the carpet. Almost all rental agreements state that the carpets will need to be professionally steam cleaned when you move out. If you’re planning to be in the rental property longer than a year, you should consider having it cleaned more often to get rid of stubborn stains and reduce the appearance of general wear-and-tear.
6. Advice for pet owners. If your rental allows you to have pets, it will be more challenging to keep the carpets clean. Make sure your pets are fully house-trained before you let them have the entire home to run around in. You’ll also need to step up the carpet maintenance when dealing with hair, dander and odors. When your pets do have an accident, and they will, make sure you use cleaning supplies designed for pets to clean up.

Professional Carpet Cleaning in Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Roswell, Duluth, Stone Mountain, Covington, Conyers, Loganville & Atlanta Georgia

Keeping carpet looking great can be hard, but it’s possible, and with diligence you can get your full security deposit back. We all want our carpets looking great for the time we’re living there and not just when we move out. Call DM Carpet Cleaning for their expertise the next time you need your carpets cleaned.