Lost my security deposit, anyone been through this?

So, my previous landlord in Texas says I lost my $2195 security deposit for not giving a 60-day written notice that I wouldn’t be renewing my lease (which ended on 9/30/24). I actually told him 21 days before, but due to health issues with my 80-year-old mom (she’s now in a senior home), I couldn’t commit to the new rent increase. Anyone know if I have a chance of getting my deposit back?

Yeah, Texas laws on deposits can be strict. Did the lease specifically say 60 days, or was there any flexibility?

Jody said:
Yeah, Texas laws on deposits can be strict. Did the lease specifically say 60 days, or was there any flexibility?

It’s in the lease, 60 days notice required. But I thought health issues might be an exception…

Jody said:
Yeah, Texas laws on deposits can be strict. Did the lease specifically say 60 days, or was there any flexibility?

It usually depends on what’s in writing. Health issues might not always impact notice requirements, unfortunately.

That sucks. I’ve heard deposits are usually for damages, not for missed notice periods. Is that the same in Texas?

Marlow said:
That sucks. I’ve heard deposits are usually for damages, not for missed notice periods. Is that the same in Texas?

Right? I thought deposits were more for damages, unpaid rent, or cleaning. But my landlord is claiming forfeiture since I didn’t give 60 days notice.

Marlow said:
That sucks. I’ve heard deposits are usually for damages, not for missed notice periods. Is that the same in Texas?

Yeah, but if it’s in the lease, they might be able to keep it. Texas is tough on these rules.

Were there any emails or messages about your mom’s health? Maybe that could support your case?

Wyatt said:
Were there any emails or messages about your mom’s health? Maybe that could support your case?

I notified him about my mom’s condition in writing, but it was only 21 days before the end of the lease. He said that wasn’t enough.

Wyatt said:
Were there any emails or messages about your mom’s health? Maybe that could support your case?

Sounds like a tough one. You might want to check with a lawyer on this. Sometimes they can find small loopholes.

You left the place clean, right? Any proof of that might help if you decide to dispute.

Merrick said:
You left the place clean, right? Any proof of that might help if you decide to dispute.

Yeah, I have videos, photos, and witnesses. Even did over $1800 in repairs (not even asking for that back).

Merrick said:
You left the place clean, right? Any proof of that might help if you decide to dispute.

Oof, that’s rough. Definitely keep all that in case it goes to small claims court.

If you’re serious about getting it back, maybe it’s worth paying for legal advice. Worth a shot?

Zane said:
If you’re serious about getting it back, maybe it’s worth paying for legal advice. Worth a shot?

I thought about it, but they’re quoting $199 just to review it. Unsure if it’s worth it.

Zane said:
If you’re serious about getting it back, maybe it’s worth paying for legal advice. Worth a shot?

Yikes, maybe try to negotiate directly with the landlord? Sometimes they’ll agree to return part of it.