I recently moved out of my apartment and spent about 3 hours cleaning it before I left. Fridge, bathrooms, stove and floors. Everything was pretty well off. When I received my security deposit back, I was charged with $80 worth of "cleaning." That's all it said. Not what was cleaned or anything. I spoke to the landlord and he said he only charges what the housekeeping did. When I asked what that was, he said that there wasn't any info on that. Granted this is not much money, but I'd love to get it back because I could not stand the mgt or the building I lived in. Is there anyway to get this money back or am I screwed? What's the best course of action?
2007-09-26 10:13:23 · 5 answers · asked by Jerod N 1 in Business & Finance ➔ Renting & Real Estate
I got hosed on that too. The place was already clean, but I was doing some dusting and washing sills to make sure I got my deposit back. The landlord told me not to since they always have a cleaning service come in anyway. They got me for $500.
I called the Fair Housing Authority. They were willing to help, but it involved going to court. It was such a hassle I let it drop and just ate the cost. It didn't help that the owner of the complex was a big attorney who threatened with suing ME.
So I guess try your housing authority first, they are very helpful, then you can decide what to do next.
2007-09-26 10:26:34 · answer #1 · answered by chefgrille 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check your lease if you still have a copy. Sounds as if the landlord has a cleaning service that comes in routinely. Most do. If your lease says you are responsible for the clean-out charge, you might be out of luck. If not, you may want to contact your local landlord/tenant authority.
2007-09-26 10:20:55 · answer #2 · answered by Cheryl G 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you cleaned it up to look just as it was when you arrived, they cannot legally take your deposit. They cannot charge you for normal wear and tear. I would consult a legal aid in your area to see about the laws in your state. Sometimes they differ. But they should be able to tell you if it's worth the bother or not. If there is no legal aid, find a lawyer who doesn't charge for a consultation.
You can always go to small claims court to sue, but it may cost you almost as much as what you get back. Then you can represent yourself without a lawyer. But you have to pay a filing fee.
2007-09-26 10:19:13 · answer #3 · answered by Frosty 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Court but, try talking to the landlord again your not screwed yet.
2007-09-26 10:17:06 · answer #4 · answered by Josh K 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
wait...so you think you are entitled to your money back because you cleaned for three hours and you didn't get along with the management staff? life has some big disappointments in store for you. i feel for you.
2007-09-26 10:36:44 · answer #5 · answered by outofmymind 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋