Is my landlord trying to keep my security deposit?

Question

My current landlord is the worst landlord I've ever had in my life. During my stay here he would show up unexpectedly to talk about his wife or his life, he even told me he was convicted of kidnapping. I asked him to not show up to my door but never cared, strangely when I needed something repaired or fixed he never show up, I begged him for 5 months to repair my garbage disposal and he never put the smoke alarms he said he would install at the begining of my lease.

I had a fire right on my door, thankfully I was able to stop the fire from spreading but it burned part of the porch and stairs. The fire came from outside but aparently I am the one who has to pay, I'm fine with that and I asked the landlord to provide a carpenter he trusts to do the job (I want somebody he chooses, that way there will be no misunderstandings about me getting somebody to do it cheap) but it has been 2 weeks, he says he'll send somebody and never does!, my lease ends in 15 days, what am I to do?.

btw, he is trying to convince me to sign for another lease, but I want out of this hellhole!!!, I have been very patient with this guy and I want out in good terms but I don't want to get ripped off by him, I'll fix his place but I don't want him to keep my 1200 dlls security deposit. Any advice would be appreciated, thanks!.

Answer 1

Actually, it is not your responsibility to pay for the fire damage. Fire damage will be covered by the landlord's insurance, which he is required to pay for.

There are laws in every state about the return of security deposits, so it is best to look for information specific to your state. Sometimes, apartment search pages will have that info.

Also, not having smoke detectors is against the law. My best advice is just to get out of there, make the place immaculate, and take pictures when you leave. If you think that there is anything questionable, document it very well. Also, have the landlord walk through with you, and fill out a sheet listing any perceived damages. Make sure you both get copies.

If he has legitemate reason to keep your security deposit that's one thing. But if there is no issue in the apartment, he has a maximum of 30 days (in most states) to return the money. Otherwise, you can sue him in small claims court. You will need the pictures and documentation in this case.

Answer 2

The landlord is covering himself. If there are any repairs or work needing doing He will be holding of letting until sometime in April - it is his choice. Why you should think it has anything to do with you or your deposit I don't know. You will get your deposit back typically between 10 and 20 days after moving out (though it can sometimes take a bit longer). As mentioned already the landlord will not be holding the deposit unless you have lived there since before the Deposit Protection Scheme became law.

Answer 3

I wouldn't pay for fire damages that weren't my fault. First of all he is violating a major tenant right by not installing a smoke detector. If I were you I would contact the Housing Authority in your area. Also, check with your local building inspectors to see what the rental codes are in your area. If he refuses to give you back your security deposit file a claim against him and take him to court. You definetly have a good case against him

Answer 4

If I was in your situation I would call a lawyer and ask him about it.
He should have insurance on the house if he is renting it out. If he does then you should not have to pay him anything. The best
thing to do is call a lawyer and ask there opinion. If I were you I would not renew the lease. I hope everything works out the best
for you. Good luck!

Answer 5

You have every right to sue him ,he still hasn't installed the fire alarm plus everything else on top of that.He can't keep your security deposit.Good Luck.

Answer 6

file a claim in the housing courts....for monies due for repairs left undone...when you get in court explain the fire problem at that time...they try to mediate first.........