We are thinking about sueing our landlord for not getting our deposit back to us in 21 days?

Question

She kept all of our deposit, didn't give us a 60-day notice (only 30), didn't give us a list of repairs or cleaning before we left and didn't give us a list of deductions with receipts before 21 days after we moved out. My question is, we are thinking about suing her but want to know our chances because we did break the rule by having more than one dog, she approved one only. Thanks.

Answer 1

In most states it is the tenant that has to give 60 days notice. A landlord only 30. She is required to give you a detailed list of all charges againist your security deposit. I believe it's 30 days to return the deposit in all states. Bottom line...If you feel she owes you even part of your security back, I wouldn't let the extra dog be a reason for not trying to sue. Good Luck

Answer 2

Was she required to give you all those things per the lease?  If she was required to give you a 60-day notice, you could have insisted on it.

Answer 3

I am guessing you are in CA.   If you rented for 1 year or less 30 day notice is correct.    But, the only thing you could have done was rented for another month anyway.

Landlords do not give any lists before you move out, we do not know what you damamged or what bills you did not pay.

She was responsible to give you a list of why you will not get a refund within 21 days.     She may say she mailed it, it would be your word against hers.

She can justify damage because of animals, but she can't do anything about it after the fact.   If she did not allow any she would be able to get a lot of remodeling out of you, but since she allowed one she can not.

Bring your pictures to court, showing lack of damage, a clean place and your rent receipts.     If your rent was fully paid and damage did not excede the deposit you should win this.   If it exceded the damage it will be your word against hers that you were informed and that she had the proper address.

Answer 4

unless she gave you a notice;

"get rid of the dog or face lease violation,"

you are 200% safe.

sue her and reap at least 2x the amount of

the deposit --your claim and damages!

thanks for asking

Answer 5

It all depends on the state in which you live and the security deposit requirements.  They vary widely from state to state.  If you show up in court and the judge discovers that you violated the terms of the rental agreement, a fair share of favor on your part will disappear.

Answer 6

Might be cheaper/faster to take it up with the local better business bureau. Good luck!