I've been asked to vacate and my landlady is not doing a final walk thru with me.?

Question

I am in California,and I have been given a notice to vacate by my landlady.She has since sent me a letter telling me when I move out to leave the keys on the kitchen counter.Should I be suspect that she is keeping my all my security deposit and should I send a demand letter to do the final walk thru?

Answer 1

You should check out your local/state laws on landlord/tenant issues. I would give the landlord the keys in person and request a walk through. Also, TAKE PICTURES of everything in the apartment before you leave to keep as proof of the condition of the apartment.

Answer 2

I would send a certified letter that you are vacating on this day and will hand the keys to her at the final walk through, and then take pictures of every room before you leave this way you have the proof if anything is done to the apartment after you have left. I would also request security deposit be returned at the time of the walk through.

Answer 3

If you cannot do a walk thru WITH her - take a boatload of pictures -- one showing you holding a newspaper from that day... and keep that paper. Video would be even better... but if you can only get a disposable camera - SOMETHING is better than NOTHING.

Also - If you just "leave the keys" and somone breaks in after you're gone... there's no proof any damage wasn't done by you. GET THE KEYS TO HER PERSONALLY on the day you leave.

I would check your lease about the terms of a walk thru conditions... make sure neither of you are violating any agreements.

Prepare for your move out as if you were preparing evidence for court... because if she refuses to return your deposit - in court you will be.

Make sure to leave it spotless - and to photgraph appliances, carpets and open rooms. Rent a floor cleaner and clean the carpet... Then she can't claim she has to replace it.

Good luck, hon. --Peace.

Answer 4

If your lease says that you are entitled to a final walk through, then hold her to it. Ask about your security deposit, and demand that all of it, or a prorated amount based on whatever damage she feels like charging you for. Landlords demand security deposits and demand that rent be paid on time. As a consumer, you are entitled to demand that your refundable security deposit be given back just as promptly.
If there was damage, she may reduce your refund based on how much damage was done, etc., but otherwise, you should get it back the day of the final walk through.

Answer 5

Send the letter, stating your vacating is conditional upon first receiving your deposit and a final walk through. also take pictures of ALL the interior of the house as evidence it was left in good condition, warranting your return of deposit

Answer 6

I would send the letter requesting a final walk thru and if she refuses I would take pictures of every inch of space! Actually, I think I would take a witness to the picture taking just in case things get ugly later. Good luck.

Answer 7

I would request a walk-thru and inquire about my security deposit. Regardless of whether you get a walk-thru or not, I would take photos (or a video) of the condition of the apartment in case the landlady claims you left the place damaged.

Answer 8

Well your vacated , look at the contract and see what the terms are of the deposit then write a letter but make sure to do a walkthrough so she cannot charge you for damages not there.

Answer 9

IF that is what she asked I would probably contact the local landlord-tenant association. At the very least, I would use a camera that stamps the date on the photos to take pictures of how you are leaving your apartment so you do have evidence and can fight if she chooses to keep your entire deposit.

Answer 10

She will likely be doing the walkthrough and will mail your security deposit back to you. This is very common. Leave your forwarding address with the keys.