Can I get my deposit back? And what are the chances of winning in Small Claims court?

Question

we have lived in 3 different Apt complexes in Florida owned by the same company(aimco). When we transferred from the 1st place two years ago we were told our deposit would transfer to the new place, since its the same company. Upon leaving our 2nd complex to our current location, they informed us we had no deposit with them. Saying they dont transfer deposits. After the runaround with the first place we got a copy of our ledger, not a move out reconcilliation report. upon review we find that we were charged 3 times for trash in the last month and 3 times for water. Plus extra rent, which should not have been due to them as we were paid in full. In fact, we left before the end of the month, they owe US money. Furthermore, we left a forwarding address, and never recieved notice of their intent to claim our deposit. My concern is that its been 2 years since we moved out. We dont want to take this to small claims,(what a hassle) but aimco is notorious for bad customer service.

Answer 1

I work for a different management company in Fl and know all about AIMCO.... the squeaky wheel gets the grease, though. Call corporate office everyday. Find a copy of your deposit payment if possible, or of your first lease with the deposit listed on it. Ask them to provide move out statements showing charges. Florida landlord/tenant law says that if they have intent to make a claim against your deposit they have to notify you in writing within 30 days. They should have at least a copy of the certified letter and the certified mail receipt showing where they sent the statement. If they cannot produce these things, you are entitled to a full refund. Good luck, and honestly be a pest. Call everyday and they will pay you to shut up. They realy will.

Answer 2

Dont fool around with big business just take all your reciepts and take them to court. and may I again say takeALL of your reciepts, I hope you kept the reciepts for the two prior appartments. if you have all the proof on the paper you are sure to win.  your dealing with a business where the left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing.  Good Luck April

Answer 3

Contact the better business bureau that will get em to wake up.  www.bbb.com