Can a landlord hold onto the full deposit solely just to be a Biotch?!
if this is against the law in any way, please let me know.
also, if you know of any websites that could tell me the answer to this, that would be greatly appreciated too!
thanks all :)
have fun!
2006-07-27 10:26:07 · 7 answers · asked by Christina 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Renting & Real Estate
No they can not. Most states have a law that requires it to be refunded within 30 days. Now if there is damage beyond resonable wear and tear they can keep some then or all if its bad enough. You should always have a move in checklist and then use it when you move out. It helps to know what was there when you moved in..
2006-07-27 10:34:27 · answer #1 · answered by SELAH77 1 · 3⤊ 0⤋
The landlord can withhold the deposit only for a few specific reasons, such as damage to the property. If the landlord wrongfully withholds the deposit then you can file a lawsuit. If you win then, in many states, the judge will award you double or even triple the amount that was wrongfully withheld.
Go to http://realestate.findlaw.com/tenant to read about security deposits in general and then click on the Resources link to get details about your state.
2006-07-27 20:27:35 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
NO!!!
They have to have a reason to keep the deposit, no matter what state you're in.
Were you evicted? If yes, they can keep it no matter if you damaged anything or not. Did you damage the apartment or any of the common areas? This includes carpet, walls, plumbing (garbage disposal), etc. If so, they can keep it to cover cost of repair.
Some places will keep a little bit to cover carpet cleaning, painting, etc, but not all of it. And if they do, this will be clearly stated in the lease.
PS- a landlord must return your deposit within 30 days of move-out, or you can sue for damages. Period.
2006-07-27 17:33:26 · answer #3 · answered by ? 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Im fairly sure that a landlord can only hold onto any amount of your security deposit if there is damage that needs to be fixed. They need proof of the damage, and proof of the amount paid to fix it. Keep in mind they have 3 weeks to send it to you, so there still may be time.
2006-07-27 17:33:18 · answer #4 · answered by iamshortys 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you followed all the guidelins and left the apartment in good condition you are suppose to get your deposit back. Read over your lease and make sure you have do everything correctly and then bring the lease agreement to your landlords attention. I fthat does not work you might need legal help
2006-07-27 17:32:33 · answer #5 · answered by trina 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First of all, In which state do you reside?
Tenant laws vary by state.
I would check online for any states Code of Civil Procedure and just look for specific landlord-tenant law.
2006-07-27 17:32:10 · answer #6 · answered by mailliwbu 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go to your local or state or provincial Residential Tenancy Act. There has to be a reason they are keeping all or part of it. If you are entitled to the full amount don't forget that you are also entitled to the interest that has been accumulating on that amount.
2006-07-27 17:31:20 · answer #7 · answered by ? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋