Anyone dealt with a landlord not returning their deposit?

Hey everyone, I’m in a bit of a situation. My landlord hasn’t returned my $900 security deposit, and I’m not sure what steps to take next. Anyone been through this before?

Ugh, that sucks! Have you tried sending a formal demand letter? Sometimes that gets their attention.

Tatum said:
Ugh, that sucks! Have you tried sending a formal demand letter? Sometimes that gets their attention.

Not yet, didn’t know that was a thing. Just an email or something more official?

Tatum said:
Ugh, that sucks! Have you tried sending a formal demand letter? Sometimes that gets their attention.

Yeah, make it official! Certified mail is better, so you have proof they received it.

If they’re withholding it without a reason, they might be breaking the law. Each state has rules on when deposits should be returned.

Perry said:
If they’re withholding it without a reason, they might be breaking the law. Each state has rules on when deposits should be returned.

Interesting, I didn’t know there were timelines for this.

Perry said:
If they’re withholding it without a reason, they might be breaking the law. Each state has rules on when deposits should be returned.

Yeah, for sure! Look up tenant rights in your state; most places say deposits have to be returned in 30 days.

Any reason they gave for holding onto it? Sometimes landlords claim ‘damages’ or extra cleaning fees.

Fin said:
Any reason they gave for holding onto it? Sometimes landlords claim ‘damages’ or extra cleaning fees.

Nope, they’ve just gone silent. No response to my texts or emails.

Fin said:
Any reason they gave for holding onto it? Sometimes landlords claim ‘damages’ or extra cleaning fees.

That’s annoying. Might be time to get a lawyer or at least mention that you’re considering legal action.

Check out local legal resources! Sometimes tenant associations or state bar sites can give free advice on deposit issues.

Neely said:
Check out local legal resources! Sometimes tenant associations or state bar sites can give free advice on deposit issues.

Good idea, thanks! I’ll look into that. Might be cheaper than going straight to a lawyer.

Neely said:
Check out local legal resources! Sometimes tenant associations or state bar sites can give free advice on deposit issues.

Yep, and they can point you in the right direction for your state’s laws.

You could also try review sites like Avvo or Justia to find a good local lawyer if you decide to go that route.

Vann said:
You could also try review sites like Avvo or Justia to find a good local lawyer if you decide to go that route.

Thanks! I’ll check those out if I need a lawyer.

Vann said:
You could also try review sites like Avvo or Justia to find a good local lawyer if you decide to go that route.

Legal review sites are pretty useful! Avvo has ratings and reviews to help you pick.