As a CT Realtor I am AMAZED at the number of clients that don't fight to get their S/D back. Fight for it people and in CT they have to send it within 3 weeks. Thank you ,love your channel
I live in Chicago and I always keep the apartment clean with no damages and majority of the landlords want to play games and not give it to you. So I refuse to pay rent for that month and tell them to take it out the security deposit. If not then I will stay in the apartment till we go to court. 99% of the time they give it back or they use it for that month rent 😊
I never had issues getting deposits back until I moved to New Haven. Then, all three landlords I had gave me a hard time. Really ridiculous charges (like 1,000 for “bulk trash removal, despite not leaving anything behind besides like toilet paper). Difficult to fight, have to go to in person small claims court. Something is broken with that system in ct, but not sure what, as the laws don’t seem to be different than anywhere else
Actually suing my old apartment right now because they tried to deduct $400 in cleaning fees when we left the unit in great shape, clean, and neither the lease nor the law gave them the rights to do that! Plus in our state we can request triple damages. They haven’t responded to our case, and just a few more days until we can request a default judgment! I swear most apartments try to pull this crap because not enough people sue, so it’s more profitable for them. Don’t let these places scam you!!
Yeah ! My old apartment had an awesome management company then sold it to some a-hole trying to make the apartments into air bnbs. He raised rent and I moved, he tried to say I darkened the wood floors? Showed him pics before I moved in and after I moved out. So crazy I had to explain to him I would have to sand and restain the floors for that to be possible, and he didn't budge. Wouldn't you know the floors didn't change ! Threatened to get legal involved, and what do you know ? he gave me my deposit back:)! Wish the worst for him.
If you don't mind me asking, Would you mind explaining how that process went? What type of attorney did you call (if any)?, How much did it cost you upfront (time, money etc) :)
Yes. I have never gotten my security deposit back and I truly was a good tenant when I rented. Didn’t think I had any recourse. Thanks for this! I hope it helps others. Don’t make my mistake.
I’m a broker in NYC and this is absolutely correct. A standard REBNY (Real Estate Board of New York) lease includes the name and address of the bank the landlord is suppose to use for your deposit and it should go in an interest-bearing account. You should always take a video at lease signing or right before you move in showing all the rooms, floors, and ceiling, and another one when you move out showing how you left the apartment. Send it to your landlord with an email asking when you will receive the deposit. They CANNOT keep it if they only need to repaint, that’s considered normal wear and tear.
@@Mdksupreme1I don’t know if this applies. I’m from Canada, I found government departments specifically there to call and protect you. And landlords can get in big shit if they’re in the wrong.
Ohio here and every single home I’ve ever rented the landlord has always made up anything they can to get out of giving me back my security deposit and I am so glad I found your channel so I now know my rights in Ohio when it comes to getting my money back. Thank you Richbff
In Texas, they have 30 days to return the deposit minus any deductions, which can not be taken out if they remodel the unit before the new tenant moves in. Also, if they don't return the deposit with or without itemized deductions on time, they're penalized $$$
After reading some of these comments, I guess Im one of the few that has gotten the full security deposit back each and every time. Ive always known it was due back to me but never knew that there could be some interest involved. Good to know now, thank you. Im learning tons from your channel. You rock.
This post is perfect timing. I just talked to my last apartment place where they’re saying I owe them money although I never received an email, had no damages (have pics to prove it) and I did not get my security deposit back. I mentioned this point to them today and I will mention again when I meet with them in a day or so. Thanks for this tip!
We did all that in Cali. They sent us a detailed list of what they had to do, like paint, which I don’t know why because the paint and walls were in excellent condition when we moved, walls were not even dirty, looked like fresh paint. After subtracting from the $300 deposit, they sent us a check for $3.00. So basically, they use the security deposit for the next tenant. And no, we had no holes in the wall, paint was still nice, etc. We took care of the place! I asked another couple who had moved out just before us and came back for something and they basically said they were told that the owners never return anyone’s security deposit. If they do, it’s NEVER over a few dollars. I’ve seen people even paint and hire a cleaning service, and they still got nothing back.
Messed up... I'm sorry 😢... However, I think it is great that you are an honorable person and did the right thing by leaving the property in good condition... I'm not sure of all the laws in california or with the statue of limitations is... But as other people have stated above, In at least some states, legally, a landlord can not charge You for normal wear and tear such as paint... You for normal wear and tear, such as paint... Here in WA, They now have free legal helps for tenants.. I don't know all the details or under what circumstances, But I am assuming that california probably has some type of similar program... Also other people have mentioned above that they represented themselves in court, and the judge demanded that the landlord refund them their deposit 3 Xs over; Because that is the law in some states
Similar thing happened to me. They were planning to remodel my unit after I moved out, so they claimed that the carpet needed to be "stretched" to avoid a big ripple when they were planning to rip it out and put in vinyl plank in it's place. I think I got like $5 in my deposit back as a result. Absolute nonsense.
This is why in Australia the standard inspection after removing furniture is photo recorded. So in between tenancies can be ethnically compared so no mistakes there. Reports are shared with tenants and landlords.
In the apartment complex I live in, no one has ever gotten the security deposit back. They supposedly claim different things that had to be replaced or fixed while being a tenant is why it's not being returned
So blessed that our last rental agency that we rented from a few years ago, the lady was so kind, when my husband lost his job, we let her know we would need to move out 3 months before the end of the contract and she was kind enough to speak to the owner about mutually breaking the contract so that we could keep the deposit and he could keep any interest. She didn't have to do that because we fully expected not to get it back but we really appreciated it
In Australia, the bond as we call it, is held by the Rental Bonds Board in each state. Both the landlord and the tenant must do a walk through and provide photographs with end of lease agreements. If there is any damages, the landlord may submit through the end of lease report to the Bonds Boards, along with quotes to fix damages. The Bond Board will determine what is reasonable wear and tear and what is damages and bond is refunded accordingly. If you disagree with the Bond Board, then you may choose to readdress the issue through mediation, a tribunal or court. This covers both the landlord and the tenant. It's standard practise in both Australia and New Zealand.
I only rented an apt once, when I was a university student. I rented from an exceptional complex, they were always on point with service and I got every penny back. Now, as a landlord, I do a walk-through with the tenant, before and after. I preserve the event on video. If there is an issue, it's documented and a receipt for repair is presented. This is just good business. That being said, I know a lot of people who have not gotten a deposit back, despite not doing any damage to the unit. Some choose to ride out their deposit, usually one month's rent, knowing that's their best chance at seeing their deposit returned. It's sad that people have to think this way just because there are so many dishonest people in the world.
In Belgium this is the system: - the renter puts the money on a special deposit account with their bank - this account is blocked until the property owner releases it - the account accumulates interest - all the money is released to the renter in the end (but technically never was transferred from their bank or name .. it's just a sum you as a renter are obliged to keep aside to be able to cover for any damages if needed) All our banks have this type of account in their portfolio of products. At the beginning and end of the contract, both owner and renter do a walk through the property and make & sign a document of the state of the property. You can document any defects that are already present at the beginning, ... It's the standard procedure here, before keys are exchanged.
My previous landlord almost charged me for "messing up" her umbrella shade thingy she got for the backyard before i had moved in. It was missing one tiny screw inside the pole, which did not cause any problems whatsoever to it. Luckily my bf was there and looked more carefully, and that's when he saw the piece she complained about stuck inside and all we needed to do was pull it out to "fix" the umbrella.
Check with the state you live in/lived in. Could be those funds, as well as other funds, are in the states hands ready for you to claim them. Now some states are getting slick and converting to a move in fee which doesn’t have to be refunded.
Colorado. I only got about 100 bucks back out of my 600 deposit. I cleaned every nook and cranny of the apartment. Left it in great shape. The complex claimed they had to clean 4 hours after me...
Some states protect the renter and allows the renter to require receipts for what the Landlord says they had to use the deposit money for. If they fixed anything show it. Where are the receipts. If there's anything left give it back.
If they DO take out any money for damages, the landlord is supposed to give you an itemized list of the damages: the actual damage/repair and cost of each. They are to give you this along with any remaining deposit if any left.
😂😂they always do the most to not give your deposit back because some of them are scammers , even if your apartment looks better than what it looked like when you started renting
Realtor/landlord. You should do a walk through with landlord when you give them the keys. The can’t really see anything if all your belongs are still in the unit
In Most states are required to tell you what banks are holding your security deposit at and what the interest rate is and how much of that you'll be getting back at the end of your term provided that there's no damage. Highly recommend that you take pictures and record the condition of the place as well as any defects prior to you moving in. People usually forget to do that last little part and well it's hard to prove in court without pictures.
My grandfather taught us to take photos of everything as it is before you move in and after you move out. Especially any existing damage that they may try to hold over you that was there before you moved in. My aunt and uncle even did this with a vacation beach rental when they were 19 and were able to prove that the landlord was making up claims of damage since they were teenagers.
That is only assuming that you have an honest landlord who doesn't inflate issues that were already there when you moved in. Always make sure to take pictures and a video when you move in to prove damages were there beforehand.
As a property manager in MN, there's no need to email us. We legally have to send you your deposit, deposit accounting, or if we need more time, a letter saying we need more time to assess damages. Please let us know your forwarding address, though.
Minnesota here, had never heard about the interest! I feel like almost every place will take part of the deposit for a 'cleaning fee', even though moving in it's never super nice...
Oh they call it a move in fee now and you can't get it back- and people are collecting application fees and knowing well they are not renting or renting anytime soon-
When I owned rentals in NH we had to provide the interest or pay double damages (double the deposit!). Most people DON’T leave it clean and MOST ask to use the deposit for their last month’s rent (illegal) despite telling them that they couldn’t many just didnt pay the last month and I would have to take them to court for any damages. 🤬
That is why chose where you own rental properties . Never walk until they move out and then you can see the real damage hidden behind their posters, photos furniture etc and then when they move look at the deep gashes left behind while They moved stuff out . Yeah cannot know the condition until they move out.
Make also sure that you make a protocolwith the landlord which specifically states the status of hhe appartement when you get it. Sometimes there are flaws of it when you get it, so the landlord cannot state when you leave that you are responsible for them.
the contract can have contingencies concerning S/D. I usually put these on leasing contracts, so landlords are NOT required to pay interest. Alsp can have a minimum of 30 days before returning, because sometimes unpaid utility bills take over 30 days before the property owner is contacted and security deposit needs to be used to cover utilities. There are other contingencies, tenants just need to read their contracts and ask questions.
I was just about to write that. I never got a deposit back. Ohio 🙄. I learned a lot when I became an assistant property manager. Those charges are for the apartment complex to rip off the soon to be former tenants. Fees $50 for stove top not cleaned $200 carpet cleaning. Even if it’s a single spot. If there is any red spots it will cost even more. Bcuz it’s harder to get red stains out of the carpet. They will tell you the have to replace your carpet but they just clean it. Those stupid blinds that always break usually run $50 in fees. During this time they look for any and everything to try to keep your money. The property manager I worked under was a crook and a terrible person. Many are scum lords Take pictures and videos of your place before you leave the keys.
Make sure to take a video or photos of your photo the day you move in to send to your landlord so they know what condition your property was in. Then take a second round of photos the day you move out as well, after the landlord does the walkthrough.
Take photos of the whole place on the day you move in too. Then during the walkthrough, reference the original photos showing that you have kept the place in the same condition you found it in.
In Wisconsin they tend to kinda screw you by telling you, you have to get the carpets professionally cleaned otherwise you won't get your deposit. Of course if you sign that they'll say you agreed to get it done so they now get either your deposit or a discount on professional grade carpet cleaning for 90% of the apartment... How can this be avoided so your "really " getting the deposit back?
We've had multiple apartments, multiple walkthrus, everything we're supposed to do, but we've never gotten anything back, even after the property managers have told us it looks better than when they first rented it. I had one tell me she couldn't believe I had 2 cats. Every time we've asked for it back, we've been told it was used for the required cleaning. I never knew we could get it back.
Some states it's legally required that your landlord give you back the deposit or give a detailed letter on why you're not getting it back within 2 weeks of moving out.
The only time that that happened to me, I got my security back with interest was from a landlord who was a woman’s lawyer and I got my security back way before I decided to move it was. I lived there nine years so I think I got my security deposit back, probably at the five years.
Interesting as in my state in Australia, a third party known as The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) administers the Act and holds bonds during a tenancy. It is not held by the landlord who then decides that can use the money for a European vacation. 😊
Yes, don't forget to take pictures when you move in and before you move out so that the landlord cannot deduct for things that were not the fault of the tenant.
Most places in Canada ask for a First and Last month Rent... In this situation you do have to pay 2 months upfront because they hold one month in but when you leave, you don't have to pay the last month...so your money can be for the next place 😊
In Toronto, it is counted as last month’s rent. So when you give 60 days (minimum) notice of departure and you pass your inspection they don’t charge you your final rent payment.
Yes one of my landlords wanted to keep a bunch back after they hadn’t sent my security deposit in the legally required 30 days, so we threatened to take them to small claims court and they coughed it up.
I had to fight for my security deposit in NH! It was so bad how often I had to request it in writing and I actually had to get it in person because they never sent it to me in the mail
In many states if they dont return your deposit or the portion of it youre due less damages by some number of days the landlord is required to pay you 100% back regardless of damages and in iowa abd kansas they are also required to pay 1.5x the deposite or something on top of that. I knew my landlord was going to try to get me on bogus damages so i waited 30 some days and then sent them a certified letter saying they can send me 100% of me deposit or ill take 2.5x my deposit. They sent me my money.
I used to work in Property Management. I always encouraged residents to take photos of everything when they first move in. If you have proof that it was damaged before you moved in, I can help you. If you have no proof, my hands are tied.
Also take pictures before you leave in case they argue and take you to court saying you trashed the place also keep all receipts showing cleaning you had done prior
What I learned renting from a condo owner was that the lease has to be more than 12 months for it to accrue interest. When I moved to an apartment, I was told that they accepted the security deposit in two forms: One that was refundable and the other that wasn't. I paid using a cashier's check, which was refundable after the lease ended. I didn't get my full amount back because they took out one day of rent since my lease ended on the first of the month. Crazy how their math worked.
In the UK, we have a "protector" scheme for deposits and the landlord is legally required to put your deposit in that scheme. You can dispute your deposit if your landlord claims something is wrong with your apartment. And if your landlord doesn’t place your deposit in the scheme, he's liable to about £4000 fine
Yup just saw this on my lease. Excited to get it back 6 years later with those years of interest! But a security deposit would never be 10 grand, I'm not sure where you got that number?
This is true, in MA there's a .19% interest on a security deposit but in addition to damages security deposits ALSO deduct from what you owe i.e. final bills and unpaid rent! PLEASE READ YOUR LEASE!!!!
When me and my fiancé first moved into this apartment, it was filthy, and shit was broken. Fiancé didn’t see any point in calling the landlord. He would rather lose his deposit. Hell I’m scared we are going to be charged more for what’s been broke since we moved it. Should’ve listened to me!
You can take pictures on move in and on move out, without talking to the landlord. Then by the time you need to argue about your security deposit you'll have already moved out and there's no risk of at least trying to get it back.
I think the next best thing would be to include in a video what it takes to stand strong in that battle (which it should never be one, but sadly can be). To take photos WITH your landlord there before you move, say when you’re looking at the place. No need to drag there sorry asses there a second time or “be too busy” & schedules not meet. Plus they then would know you’re serious. Have a printed out check list with your initials and their initials. I know it’s work. But it’s best to do pre work then post battles and stress! Protect your ass, protect your ass, protect your ass 😂 Also would be great to do a video on insurance…. They love to tell you how your “insured up to xyz $ pretty number”. But the fact is very different. - you need to take a picture of every single thing in your house along with serial numbers for it to be insured. Assessed value is only assessed if it is seen. Other wise, they don’t go off your word. It’s a business, they want to make money…
The security deposit is also held for one month after the tenant leaves to cover any unpaid utility bills. If a security deposit is not given back it's either because it was used for unpaid bills or it was used as the last month's rent
My 1st apartment/deposit in TX didn't come back to me even tho I literally left it in better condition 😂 my neighbors/everyone tried to tell me that's "how it works in TX" 😭 why did I clean it like brand new then??
The last place we lived they dod the inspection the day we moved out. Well, we went over everything and told me what to expect and it would take a month or 2 to send. I should of known then it was going to be a problem. Well when the money went threw it wasn't the amount we discussed so I called them. They said my dog did some damage but they didn't tell me what. My dog was an angel. She never messed up anything. Then they said the bathroom had some cleaning that needed to be done. She never mentioned this in the walk threw. Those bathrooms where very clean. However, as she was doing the inspection she did have folks coming in to look at the house to rent. So idk if something got tracked in or what? I was fed up with them.
Video record your own walk through before handing over keys. THEN also video record the walk through with the landlord. That way they can’t come in behind you and claim they cleaned it beforehand either.
As a CT Realtor I am AMAZED at the number of clients that don't fight to get their S/D back. Fight for it people and in CT they have to send it within 3 weeks. Thank you ,love your channel
I live in Chicago and I always keep the apartment clean with no damages and majority of the landlords want to play games and not give it to you. So I refuse to pay rent for that month and tell them to take it out the security deposit. If not then I will stay in the apartment till we go to court. 99% of the time they give it back or they use it for that month rent 😊
I live in CT and never knew they only had 3 weeks! Il
New rental law at the beginning of 2024.
@@lucas-sq1jsin some places, riding out that deposit may be the best option. I'll never understand why people are so shifty.
I never had issues getting deposits back until I moved to New Haven. Then, all three landlords I had gave me a hard time. Really ridiculous charges (like 1,000 for “bulk trash removal, despite not leaving anything behind besides like toilet paper). Difficult to fight, have to go to in person small claims court. Something is broken with that system in ct, but not sure what, as the laws don’t seem to be different than anywhere else
Actually suing my old apartment right now because they tried to deduct $400 in cleaning fees when we left the unit in great shape, clean, and neither the lease nor the law gave them the rights to do that! Plus in our state we can request triple damages. They haven’t responded to our case, and just a few more days until we can request a default judgment! I swear most apartments try to pull this crap because not enough people sue, so it’s more profitable for them. Don’t let these places scam you!!
Yeah ! My old apartment had an awesome management company then sold it to some a-hole trying to make the apartments into air bnbs. He raised rent and I moved, he tried to say I darkened the wood floors? Showed him pics before I moved in and after I moved out. So crazy I had to explain to him I would have to sand and restain the floors for that to be possible, and he didn't budge. Wouldn't you know the floors didn't change ! Threatened to get legal involved, and what do you know ? he gave me my deposit back:)! Wish the worst for him.
I sued my old landlords for this very same reason. Went to court by myself and the judge made them payed me triple the amount that was due .
That's the cost of doing business for the landlord!
Update please 👍🏼how'd it go?
If you don't mind me asking, Would you mind explaining how that process went? What type of attorney did you call (if any)?, How much did it cost you upfront (time, money etc) :)
Yes. I have never gotten my security deposit back and I truly was a good tenant when I rented. Didn’t think I had any recourse. Thanks for this! I hope it helps others. Don’t make my mistake.
I’m a broker in NYC and this is absolutely correct. A standard REBNY (Real Estate Board of New York) lease includes the name and address of the bank the landlord is suppose to use for your deposit and it should go in an interest-bearing account. You should always take a video at lease signing or right before you move in showing all the rooms, floors, and ceiling, and another one when you move out showing how you left the apartment. Send it to your landlord with an email asking when you will receive the deposit. They CANNOT keep it if they only need to repaint, that’s considered normal wear and tear.
What do you do if they refuse to give you back though, do you sue, and isn't suing just more expensive
@@Mdksupreme1I don’t know if this applies. I’m from Canada, I found government departments specifically there to call and protect you. And landlords can get in big shit if they’re in the wrong.
Also, don't let the property owner or management company send you a 1099. This is money owed to you, not income!
Ohio here and every single home I’ve ever rented the landlord has always made up anything they can to get out of giving me back my security deposit and I am so glad I found your channel so I now know my rights in Ohio when it comes to getting my money back. Thank you Richbff
In Texas, they have 30 days to return the deposit minus any deductions, which can not be taken out if they remodel the unit before the new tenant moves in. Also, if they don't return the deposit with or without itemized deductions on time, they're penalized $$$
After reading some of these comments, I guess Im one of the few that has gotten the full security deposit back each and every time. Ive always known it was due back to me but never knew that there could be some interest involved. Good to know now, thank you. Im learning tons from your channel. You rock.
Same, I’ve managed to get more good over bad. And when I got bad I found government resources to go to and ask for help.
Wow, I never knew this!!!!! Thank you so much for this information!!! I am sharing it with everyone!!!!!! 😮❤
This post is perfect timing. I just talked to my last apartment place where they’re saying I owe them money although I never received an email, had no damages (have pics to prove it) and I did not get my security deposit back. I mentioned this point to them today and I will mention again when I meet with them in a day or so. Thanks for this tip!
We did all that in Cali. They sent us a detailed list of what they had to do, like paint, which I don’t know why because the paint and walls were in excellent condition when we moved, walls were not even dirty, looked like fresh paint. After subtracting from the $300 deposit, they sent us a check for $3.00. So basically, they use the security deposit for the next tenant. And no, we had no holes in the wall, paint was still nice, etc. We took care of the place! I asked another couple who had moved out just before us and came back for something and they basically said they were told that the owners never return anyone’s security deposit. If they do, it’s NEVER over a few dollars. I’ve seen people even paint and hire a cleaning service, and they still got nothing back.
Messed up... I'm sorry 😢... However, I think it is great that you are an honorable person and did the right thing by leaving the property in good condition... I'm not sure of all the laws in california or with the statue of limitations is... But as other people have stated above, In at least some states, legally, a landlord can not charge You for normal wear and tear such as paint... You for normal wear and tear, such as paint... Here in WA, They now have free legal helps for tenants.. I don't know all the details or under what circumstances, But I am assuming that california probably has some type of similar program...
Also other people have mentioned above that they represented themselves in court, and the judge demanded that the landlord refund them their deposit 3 Xs over; Because that is the law in some states
Similar thing happened to me. They were planning to remodel my unit after I moved out, so they claimed that the carpet needed to be "stretched" to avoid a big ripple when they were planning to rip it out and put in vinyl plank in it's place. I think I got like $5 in my deposit back as a result. Absolute nonsense.
@@pull_up_the_rootswow that’s so sad
This is why in Australia the standard inspection after removing furniture is photo recorded. So in between tenancies can be ethnically compared so no mistakes there. Reports are shared with tenants and landlords.
Ethically lol
In the apartment complex I live in, no one has ever gotten the security deposit back. They supposedly claim different things that had to be replaced or fixed while being a tenant is why it's not being returned
So blessed that our last rental agency that we rented from a few years ago, the lady was so kind, when my husband lost his job, we let her know we would need to move out 3 months before the end of the contract and she was kind enough to speak to the owner about mutually breaking the contract so that we could keep the deposit and he could keep any interest. She didn't have to do that because we fully expected not to get it back but we really appreciated it
Lol...interest? You mean 44 cents after 20 years of living in the same apartment? Don't spend that interest all at one time.
Wow, I never knew this!!!!! Thank you so much for this information!!! I am sharing it with everyone!!!!!!
In Australia, the bond as we call it, is held by the Rental Bonds Board in each state. Both the landlord and the tenant must do a walk through and provide photographs with end of lease agreements.
If there is any damages, the landlord may submit through the end of lease report to the Bonds Boards, along with quotes to fix damages. The Bond Board will determine what is reasonable wear and tear and what is damages and bond is refunded accordingly.
If you disagree with the Bond Board, then you may choose to readdress the issue through mediation, a tribunal or court.
This covers both the landlord and the tenant. It's standard practise in both Australia and New Zealand.
I only rented an apt once, when I was a university student. I rented from an exceptional complex, they were always on point with service and I got every penny back. Now, as a landlord, I do a walk-through with the tenant, before and after. I preserve the event on video. If there is an issue, it's documented and a receipt for repair is presented. This is just good business.
That being said, I know a lot of people who have not gotten a deposit back, despite not doing any damage to the unit. Some choose to ride out their deposit, usually one month's rent, knowing that's their best chance at seeing their deposit returned. It's sad that people have to think this way just because there are so many dishonest people in the world.
Thank for all of this info that you give us. You're are a blessing!❤🎉
Thank you for the informative information! I needed that 👍❤
Yes girl, I’m surprised people do not know about that- thanks Rich BFF❤
In Belgium this is the system:
- the renter puts the money on a special deposit account with their bank
- this account is blocked until the property owner releases it
- the account accumulates interest
- all the money is released to the renter in the end
(but technically never was transferred from their bank or name .. it's just a sum you as a renter are obliged to keep aside to be able to cover for any damages if needed)
All our banks have this type of account in their portfolio of products.
At the beginning and end of the contract, both owner and renter do a walk through the property and make & sign a document of the state of the property. You can document any defects that are already present at the beginning, ...
It's the standard procedure here, before keys are exchanged.
Same in Germany, only it can either be the landlord or the renter who opens the special account for the deposit.
Thank you Vivian 🎉❤ very important information I am a renter .
Great reminder! Also, check if you moved out of a dorm and had to pay a deposit. My son just received a check for the deposit we paid four years ago.
My previous landlord almost charged me for "messing up" her umbrella shade thingy she got for the backyard before i had moved in. It was missing one tiny screw inside the pole, which did not cause any problems whatsoever to it. Luckily my bf was there and looked more carefully, and that's when he saw the piece she complained about stuck inside and all we needed to do was pull it out to "fix" the umbrella.
Check with the state you live in/lived in. Could be those funds, as well as other funds, are in the states hands ready for you to claim them. Now some states are getting slick and converting to a move in fee which doesn’t have to be refunded.
Mine, in AZ, deducted a carpet cleaning fee and other things from it 🙄
I never give back my keys until I get my deposit back
Great advice!
Colorado. I only got about 100 bucks back out of my 600 deposit. I cleaned every nook and cranny of the apartment. Left it in great shape. The complex claimed they had to clean 4 hours after me...
Thanks! This just reminded me about my deposit. Getting it done right now.
Depending on your state they need to send it within 30 days.
Everywhere I’ve rented they’ve never given me my deposit back and I’d left those places in better and cleaner conditions than we had rented them in.
Because you don't fight for it. When you lay down people treat you like a doormat.
Same.
@@syasyaishavingfundid they FIGHT TO GET IT NO!!!
Thank you for the information....interest plus.
They make you sign saying you will not get it back
Some states protect the renter and allows the renter to require receipts for what the Landlord says they had to use the deposit money for. If they fixed anything show it. Where are the receipts. If there's anything left give it back.
If they DO take out any money for damages, the landlord is supposed to give you an itemized list of the damages: the actual damage/repair and cost of each. They are to give you this along with any remaining deposit if any left.
😂😂they always do the most to not give your deposit back because some of them are scammers , even if your apartment looks better than what it looked like when you started renting
Realtor/landlord. You should do a walk through with landlord when you give them the keys. The can’t really see anything if all your belongs are still in the unit
In Most states are required to tell you what banks are holding your security deposit at and what the interest rate is and how much of that you'll be getting back at the end of your term provided that there's no damage. Highly recommend that you take pictures and record the condition of the place as well as any defects prior to you moving in. People usually forget to do that last little part and well it's hard to prove in court without pictures.
Thank you.
My grandfather taught us to take photos of everything as it is before you move in and after you move out. Especially any existing damage that they may try to hold over you that was there before you moved in. My aunt and uncle even did this with a vacation beach rental when they were 19 and were able to prove that the landlord was making up claims of damage since they were teenagers.
That is only assuming that you have an honest landlord who doesn't inflate issues that were already there when you moved in. Always make sure to take pictures and a video when you move in to prove damages were there beforehand.
As a property manager in MN, there's no need to email us. We legally have to send you your deposit, deposit accounting, or if we need more time, a letter saying we need more time to assess damages. Please let us know your forwarding address, though.
I always got mine back plus some more
In Michigan you MUST send a letter by mail to your landlord with in 5 days…
I think its 4 for the forwarding address.
When they don't return it in CA within just a couple weeks, you can sue them for the deposit plus a 2.5x penalty.
I've always gotten mine back, and they better.
Tu for teaching this
Minnesota here, had never heard about the interest! I feel like almost every place will take part of the deposit for a 'cleaning fee', even though moving in it's never super nice...
Oh they call it a move in fee now and you can't get it back- and people are collecting application fees and knowing well they are not renting or renting anytime soon-
When I owned rentals in NH we had to provide the interest or pay double damages (double the deposit!). Most people DON’T leave it clean and MOST ask to use the deposit for their last month’s rent (illegal) despite telling them that they couldn’t many just didnt pay the last month and I would have to take them to court for any damages. 🤬
That is why chose where you own rental properties . Never walk until they move out and then you can see the real damage hidden behind their posters, photos furniture etc and then when they move look at the deep gashes left behind while
They moved stuff out . Yeah cannot know the condition until they move out.
Thank you....wait until they move everything out before walk through is done...😮@@craigshak
I had rentals there also and found that most people would do the same, except it was almost never worth going to court.
Make also sure that you make a protocolwith the landlord which specifically states the status of hhe appartement when you get it. Sometimes there are flaws of it when you get it, so the landlord cannot state when you leave that you are responsible for them.
the contract can have contingencies concerning S/D. I usually put these on leasing contracts, so landlords are NOT required to pay interest. Alsp can have a minimum of 30 days before returning, because sometimes unpaid utility bills take over 30 days before the property owner is contacted and security deposit needs to be used to cover utilities. There are other contingencies, tenants just need to read their contracts and ask questions.
I was just about to write that. I never got a deposit back. Ohio 🙄. I learned a lot when I became an assistant property manager.
Those charges are for the apartment complex to rip off the soon to be former tenants.
Fees
$50 for stove top not cleaned
$200 carpet cleaning. Even if it’s a single spot.
If there is any red spots it will cost even more. Bcuz it’s harder to get red stains out of the carpet.
They will tell you the have to replace your carpet but they just clean it.
Those stupid blinds that always break usually run $50 in fees.
During this time they look for any and everything to try to keep your money.
The property manager I worked under was a crook and a terrible person. Many are scum lords
Take pictures and videos of your place before you leave the keys.
I always get mine back. I fight for it every time. Never heard of Interest on it tho!
Make sure to take a video or photos of your photo the day you move in to send to your landlord so they know what condition your property was in. Then take a second round of photos the day you move out as well, after the landlord does the walkthrough.
Take photos of the whole place on the day you move in too. Then during the walkthrough, reference the original photos showing that you have kept the place in the same condition you found it in.
In FL, they want to do a walk through After you leave.
In Kansas, the interest made from security deposits is deemed as "property of the landlord", and aren't required to hand over that interest.
In Wisconsin they tend to kinda screw you by telling you, you have to get the carpets professionally cleaned otherwise you won't get your deposit. Of course if you sign that they'll say you agreed to get it done so they now get either your deposit or a discount on professional grade carpet cleaning for 90% of the apartment... How can this be avoided so your "really " getting the deposit back?
We've had multiple apartments, multiple walkthrus, everything we're supposed to do, but we've never gotten anything back, even after the property managers have told us it looks better than when they first rented it. I had one tell me she couldn't believe I had 2 cats. Every time we've asked for it back, we've been told it was used for the required cleaning. I never knew we could get it back.
Some states it's legally required that your landlord give you back the deposit or give a detailed letter on why you're not getting it back within 2 weeks of moving out.
The only time that that happened to me, I got my security back with interest was from a landlord who was a woman’s lawyer and I got my security back way before I decided to move it was. I lived there nine years so I think I got my security deposit back, probably at the five years.
Interesting as in my state in Australia, a third party known as The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) administers the Act and holds bonds during a tenancy. It is not held by the landlord who then decides that can use the money for a European vacation. 😊
Yes, don't forget to take pictures when you move in and before you move out so that the landlord cannot deduct for things that were not the fault of the tenant.
FYI, most states require the SD returned within 30 days. Most states.
The length of time a landlord has to return it, is outlined in the lease agreement - not dictated by a tenant’s demand.
Most places in Canada ask for a First and Last month Rent... In this situation you do have to pay 2 months upfront because they hold one month in but when you leave, you don't have to pay the last month...so your money can be for the next place 😊
Oh yeah, and do a video of your final walk through of the apartment.This is how i've gotten all my security deposits back
In Toronto, it is counted as last month’s rent. So when you give 60 days (minimum) notice of departure and you pass your inspection they don’t charge you your final rent payment.
Interesting about the interest, I've always had my deposit returned though.
GET IT BACK! this is why you do a check in list when you rent the place and then you should get it all!
The issue is that the average person renting an apartment doesn't have the means to take their landlords to court.
Yes one of my landlords wanted to keep a bunch back after they hadn’t sent my security deposit in the legally required 30 days, so we threatened to take them to small claims court and they coughed it up.
I had to fight for my security deposit in NH! It was so bad how often I had to request it in writing and I actually had to get it in person because they never sent it to me in the mail
In many states if they dont return your deposit or the portion of it youre due less damages by some number of days the landlord is required to pay you 100% back regardless of damages and in iowa abd kansas they are also required to pay 1.5x the deposite or something on top of that. I knew my landlord was going to try to get me on bogus damages so i waited 30 some days and then sent them a certified letter saying they can send me 100% of me deposit or ill take 2.5x my deposit. They sent me my money.
I used to work in Property Management. I always encouraged residents to take photos of everything when they first move in. If you have proof that it was damaged before you moved in, I can help you. If you have no proof, my hands are tied.
Also take pictures before you leave in case they argue and take you to court saying you trashed the place also keep all receipts showing cleaning you had done prior
What I learned renting from a condo owner was that the lease has to be more than 12 months for it to accrue interest. When I moved to an apartment, I was told that they accepted the security deposit in two forms: One that was refundable and the other that wasn't. I paid using a cashier's check, which was refundable after the lease ended. I didn't get my full amount back because they took out one day of rent since my lease ended on the first of the month. Crazy how their math worked.
In the UK, we have a "protector" scheme for deposits and the landlord is legally required to put your deposit in that scheme.
You can dispute your deposit if your landlord claims something is wrong with your apartment.
And if your landlord doesn’t place your deposit in the scheme, he's liable to about £4000 fine
Yup just saw this on my lease. Excited to get it back 6 years later with those years of interest! But a security deposit would never be 10 grand, I'm not sure where you got that number?
This is true, in MA there's a .19% interest on a security deposit but in addition to damages security deposits ALSO deduct from what you owe i.e. final bills and unpaid rent! PLEASE READ YOUR LEASE!!!!
That's why we just live out our last month without paying rent in NYC 😅
Wow ive never received a deposit back 😅 and i have photos & videos of all my apartments. Dang thats so wild.
I do all that and they still keep a portion the deposit every time. Taking them to court is just a hassle which is why they do it.
When me and my fiancé first moved into this apartment, it was filthy, and shit was broken. Fiancé didn’t see any point in calling the landlord. He would rather lose his deposit. Hell I’m scared we are going to be charged more for what’s been broke since we moved it. Should’ve listened to me!
You can take pictures on move in and on move out, without talking to the landlord. Then by the time you need to argue about your security deposit you'll have already moved out and there's no risk of at least trying to get it back.
I think the next best thing would be to include in a video what it takes to stand strong in that battle (which it should never be one, but sadly can be). To take photos WITH your landlord there before you move, say when you’re looking at the place. No need to drag there sorry asses there a second time or “be too busy” & schedules not meet. Plus they then would know you’re serious. Have a printed out check list with your initials and their initials. I know it’s work. But it’s best to do pre work then post battles and stress! Protect your ass, protect your ass, protect your ass 😂
Also would be great to do a video on insurance…. They love to tell you how your “insured up to xyz $ pretty number”. But the fact is very different. - you need to take a picture of every single thing in your house along with serial numbers for it to be insured. Assessed value is only assessed if it is seen. Other wise, they don’t go off your word. It’s a business, they want to make money…
The security deposit is also held for one month after the tenant leaves to cover any unpaid utility bills. If a security deposit is not given back it's either because it was used for unpaid bills or it was used as the last month's rent
That interest is like 50 cent a year if that much😂
I've never got my security deposit back and I've done the walk through. I could take the hassle. I'll do it this time though 😅
You can have your landlord do a walk-through before you move out. But most of the damage is done during move out.
i always get mine back never had a problem
My 1st apartment/deposit in TX didn't come back to me even tho I literally left it in better condition 😂 my neighbors/everyone tried to tell me that's "how it works in TX" 😭 why did I clean it like brand new then??
Yeah you can spend days cleaning and painting and they still keep the deposit saying they had to clean and paint.
The last place we lived they dod the inspection the day we moved out. Well, we went over everything and told me what to expect and it would take a month or 2 to send. I should of known then it was going to be a problem. Well when the money went threw it wasn't the amount we discussed so I called them. They said my dog did some damage but they didn't tell me what. My dog was an angel. She never messed up anything. Then they said the bathroom had some cleaning that needed to be done. She never mentioned this in the walk threw. Those bathrooms where very clean. However, as she was doing the inspection she did have folks coming in to look at the house to rent. So idk if something got tracked in or what? I was fed up with them.
Great in theory but most "normal" tenants incur damages to some extent
Well my parents have been landlording wrong then, the tenants always stopped paying their last month and tried to get their deposit back.
In switzerland, you pay a deposit, and at the end of the year,you get the interest from it paid to you till you leave.
Video record your own walk through before handing over keys. THEN also video record the walk through with the landlord. That way they can’t come in behind you and claim they cleaned it beforehand either.
I usually don’t pay the last month and let them keep the deposit. I leave the apartment in the condition it was in.
I always get my security deposit back
This is one of the few things about money I knew.