Leaving Your Rental? Here's How to Keep Your Deposit

How I Got My Full Deposit Back in Qatar

💬 Introduction: Nobody Warns You About This

When I moved out of my apartment in Doha last year, I thought I had done everything right—until I saw a deduction on my deposit for a barely noticeable wall mark. That experience led me to compile this checklist, so you won’t repeat my mistake.

Table of Contents

• Know Your Lease
• Clean Like You’re Moving Into a Hotel
• Document Everything
• Do a Final Walk-Through
• Clear All Bills
• Final Thoughts

📋 1. Know Your Lease

Ask yourself: do I really know what I signed? Most expats rush the paperwork, but your lease likely explains:

• The refund rules for your deposit
• Move-out notice period (usually 1–2 months)
• What counts as ‘damage’ vs. ‘wear and tear’

Pro Tip: If the language is unclear, ask for a written explanation in plain English or get help from a local agent.

🧽 2. Clean Like You’re Moving Into a Hotel

I once thought a quick sweep was enough. Not in the Gulf. Return your home in the same—or better—condition. Focus on:

• Scrubbed kitchen and bathrooms
• Clean appliances (inside too!)
• No nail holes, paint scratches, or broken tiles

Why it matters: Landlords expect a move-in-ready unit, not just an empty one.

📸 3. Document Everything

On move-in day, take timestamped photos of every corner. Repeat when you move out. Highlight any pre-existing damage so you’re not blamed later.

This simple habit helped me win a deposit dispute once—with photos to prove my case.

🧾 4. Do a Final Walk-Through

Don’t just drop the keys. Insist on a final inspection and written sign-off from your landlord or agent.

If they say "everything looks good," ask them to put it in writing—email, WhatsApp, anything.

💰 5. Clear All Bills Before You Leave

You’d be surprised how often people forget utility bills or unpaid maintenance fees. Before you go:

• Pay your last electricity and water bill
• Cancel your internet and save the receipt
• Ask the compound office for a zero-balance letter

Why? Outstanding dues can legally justify holding your deposit—even months later.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Your deposit isn't lost—it's protected by what you do before leaving.

From cleaning to communication, a few careful steps can save you thousands of riyals. Don’t wait until move-out week—start early, stay organized, and leave with confidence (and your money).