So, you’ve found a place to live for your Erasmus in Athens...

Perfect, right?

But then they mention a deposit!

And suddenly, the questions start: How much? What’s it for? Will I get it back?

Let’s get straight to the point: deposits are a standard part of renting, especially when you’re in a new place.

But that doesn’t mean you should throw your hard-earned cash into a black hole.

In this guide, we’re going to break down everything you need to know to protect that deposit.

You’ll find out exactly how it works, what’s expected of you, and... most importantly—how to walk out with every cent back in your pocket.

1. Why You’re Paying a Deposit in the First Place

Think of a deposit as a safety net. For landlords, it’s insurance against potential damage or missed rent payments. For you, it’s a way of saying, “I’m responsible, and I’m here to keep things in good shape.”

Quick Tip:

Before you hand over a deposit, make sure you know what it covers. Standard things include:

• Unpaid rent

• Damage beyond regular wear and tear

• Extra cleaning fees if you leave the place in a mess

If it’s not clear what your deposit covers, ask for details. And get it in writing.

2. The Process of Paying Your Deposit

Deposits for student housing or short-term stays are usually a one-time payment at the start of your lease. Expect to pay around one month’s rent upfront—though it could be more if you’re renting a place with high-end amenities or in high demand.

Example:

Let’s say your rent is €400. A typical deposit might also be €400, making your initial payment €800. Make sure you budget for this when you’re planning your Erasmus adventure so it doesn’t catch you off guard.

3. Document Everything When You Move In

This step is HUGE. Think of this as your “proof of condition” to protect your deposit. When you move in, take detailed photos of everything. And we mean everything. This includes:

• Walls

• Floors

• Windows

• Appliances

• Furniture (if it’s a furnished space)

Any scuffs, stains, cracks, or minor issues? Document it. And keep these photos handy—you’ll need them later if there’s any debate.

Pro Tip:

If you notice something like a leaky faucet or a broken light switch, don’t just take a picture. Send a quick email or message to the landlord, letting them know the issue was there when you moved in. That way, it’s on record.

4. Keep Up with Basic Maintenance

Want your deposit back? Treat the place with respect. This doesn’t mean you have to scrub the floors daily, but a little routine maintenance goes a long way:

• Keep the place clean.

• Avoid hanging anything heavy on the walls without permission.

• Report minor issues (like a faucet dripping or a door creaking) before they become big problems.

Your landlord will appreciate it—and it’ll give them one less reason to withhold any of your deposit when you move out.

5. Know What’s Considered “Normal Wear and Tear”

Normal wear and tear are things that happen just by living in a place—think minor scuffs on the floor or faded paint from sunlight. These things happen in every rental, and your landlord shouldn’t be taking them out of your deposit.

However, things that go beyond normal wear and tear, like large stains on the carpet or cracked tiles, are another story. You’ll want to avoid these if you want your deposit back.

Example:

Let’s say you accidentally scratch the floor while moving a desk. If it’s minor and part of normal use, it’s “wear and tear.” But if it’s a deep gouge from dragging a heavy piece of furniture, the landlord may deduct it.

6. Understand the Terms for Getting Your Deposit Back

Every landlord or rental company has their own rules about how and when you’ll get your deposit back. Common terms include:

• Returning the deposit within 30 days of move-out

• Deductions for unpaid rent or extra cleaning fees

• Requirements to leave the place in a similar condition to how you found it

Action Step:

Ask about the deposit refund policy before signing your lease. Knowing these details can save you from surprises later.

7. Clean Up Before You Go

The condition you leave the place in can make or break your deposit refund. Don’t leave it up to chance—do a final clean before you go. Here’s what to focus on:

• Kitchen: Clean the stove, fridge, and cabinets.

• Bathroom: Wipe down the shower, sink, and toilet.

• Living Spaces: Dust, vacuum, and make sure everything is neat.

You don’t need to make it spotless, but leaving it in good shape gives you the best shot at getting that full deposit back.

8. Do a Walk-Through (and Take More Photos)

When your time is up, do a final walk-through of the space. Take photos again—this time showing the clean, well-maintained condition of each room. These photos are your backup in case any disputes arise.

If possible, ask the landlord to do a walk-through with you. This way, you can address any issues on the spot rather than risking a surprise deduction later.

9. Don’t Leave Anything Behind

You might be tempted to leave behind a couple of useful items—a desk chair, some plates, or cleaning supplies. Don’t. Leaving things behind means the landlord might have to clear them out, and they could charge you for it. Take everything with you to avoid extra costs.

10. Follow Up on Your Deposit

If the refund doesn’t come within the timeframe agreed upon, follow up politely. A quick message to the landlord or rental company can clarify the status. If there’s an issue, address it directly. Keep all communication professional and documented to resolve it smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Getting your deposit back is all about being smart and prepared.

With a few extra steps before, during, and after your stay, you can ensure that the money you put down comes right back to you when it’s time to leave.

Looking for a place that’ll make your Erasmus stay in Athens smooth and worry-free?

Check out our fully furnished, student-friendly listings at Rooms Athens. We’re here to make sure you enjoy every minute of your Erasmus adventure without the usual headaches.

There you have it—clear steps, real value, and actionable tips to keep every bit of your deposit safe and sound. Now, go enjoy Athens with peace of mind.