Florida Landlord deducted (unknown) damages from my security deposit!

Question

- In February, 2008 We signed a month to month lease agreement for an apartment in Florida.

2-We decided to vacate the apartment because part of the stove was in not working condition, and the apartment has a leak in the living room so every time it rained the water came inside the apartment, we called the landlord to let her know about the problems in the apartment and she did not fixed any of them.

2- on May we sent the required notice to terminate the lease agreement ;and we received a letter from the landlord accepting the lease termination.

2-The day the lease ended , we vacated the apartment, and we walked trough with a lady (she had a power of attorney from the Landlord) and she signed a document stating that the apartment was received in good condition, except for the normal wear and tear.

3-One month after we vacated the apartment, we received a check deducting damages for almost five hundred from my more than one thousand security deposit (with a letter stating that she had incurred in extra costs for the short occupancy(?);found carpet stains(?);and damaged pillows(?) I NEVER DAMAGED ANY PROPERTY!!!

4-I believe that The Landlord failed to give the required notice of her intention to impose a claim on the security deposit, then she had gave up the right to to impose a claim upon the security deposit.

Why she took my money without my authorization? Do you know the law? What do you think? HELP Please!

Answer 1

I moved from Florida to Michigan last year, so I'm not sure who I could call to help you. Here is a list of apartments in Florida that you can contact. http://www.findanapartmentonline.com/Flo... I'm sure someone can help you.

Answer 2

Ask her for an itemized list of the costs she incurred fixing the problems.  If she cant produce that, or if the list doesnt match the amount she deducted, then file suit in small claims court.  In my state, if a landlord improperly witholds a security deposit and wont return it, you are then entitled to treble damages in court.

Answer 3

She is not being fair.  In the future you will videotape the property on the day you move in and the day you move out.  If you don't have a camera, borrow one. A new tape costs $5.  You will never have this happen to you again.

I would call Judge Judy. She would roast this landlord. /

Answer 4

take her to small claims court.

Answer 5

Refer the question to the Attorney Generals office and claim that the landlady  did  a walk through with you and had no problem then. As soon as you moved all the claims were made against your security deposit.