one month deposit as last month payment?

Question

i'm renting for 2 months already, just a small room..$500/mo..when i moved, the LL asked me for $1000(payment for 1 month and a deposit)..i decided to move state this october..i'm planning to leave the house by the end of september..the question, will the deposit cover my last month stay? The LL didn't tell me that it is a security deposit or something and we don't have any contract..thanks for the help..

we haven't talked yet..i just wanna have an idea..i can't pay him anymore beacause i recently quit my job and saving my money..

Answer 1

No. If the landlord were to have asked you for $1000 to cover first and last months rent, then it would be fine, but he didn't. A deposit serves for more than simply to secure you stick around to pay rent , like to cover possible damages, cleaning, etc.. If you assume that you can use the full amount to cover your rent, what is left over for the other things after you leave?

Answer 2

Yes, provided that you give your LL proper notice (check your contract), they already have the last month's rent so you don't need to pay. Getting the security deposit back can be problematic depending upon the landlord. Since you were only there a short time, they can deduct carpet cleaning/replacement costs and painting costs (even if the place is in the same condition as when you arrived).

Answer 3

Any landlord who is protecting his investment will not allow you to use your security deposit for the last month's rent. If they allow this it leaves them financially exposed for any damage, etc., caused by a tenant.

That said, you've only been there a few months and if you leave early they might be able to rent it out again quickly. They might not be experienced enough and let you use the deposit as last month's rent. Hey - it never hurts to ask!

Good luck!