01 · Practical guidance
Start with the agreement and local law
Review notice, cleaning, repair, key-return, inspection, forwarding-address, and deposit provisions. State and local deadlines and permitted deductions vary.
Verify
Collect the current price, terms, and constraints.
Compare
Put realistic alternatives on the same basis.
Act
Choose the next move and document the follow-through.
02 · Practical guidance
Create condition evidence
Use dated photos and video of every room, appliance, fixture, floor, wall, window, exterior area, meter, and key. Preserve the move-in record and all repair requests.
03 · Practical guidance
Close the tenancy in writing
Keep notice delivery, inspection notes, receipts, key-return confirmation, forwarding address, final utility information, and the landlord's itemized deposit response.
A strong decision is not just cheaper. It is complete, usable, documented, and ready to carry out.
Your action plan
Make the next move without reopening the research.
- Review the lease and local tenant rules.
- Give required written notice.
- Request move-out instructions and inspection.
- Document condition and completed work.
- Return keys and provide a forwarding address with proof.
Questions people ask
Common questions, answered directly.
What can a landlord deduct?
Rules vary by location and lease. Review local law and the itemized explanation rather than assuming every charge is permitted.
Are photos enough?
Photos help, but combine them with dates, video, move-in records, repair requests, inspection notes, receipts, and key-return proof.
What if the deposit is not returned?
Preserve the lease and evidence, review local deadlines and remedies, and use qualified housing or legal help when needed.
Primary resources
Verify availability and terms at the source.
Use these independent primary resources to confirm rules, availability, and current details: