Use this security deposit guide to build a clear demand letter for Virginia Beach.
Understanding Security Deposit Rights in Virginia Beach: A Comprehensive Legal Guide
Virginia Beach, as the largest city in Virginia with a significant rental housing market, sees thousands of security deposit disputes each year as tenants move in and out of rental properties. Whether you are renting an oceanfront condominium near the resort area, an apartment near Town Center, housing in one of the many military communities serving the area's naval installations, or a single-family home in the suburbs, understanding your security deposit rights under Virginia law is essential for protecting your financial interests when your tenancy ends.
Virginia's security deposit law, codified in Virginia Code Section 55.1-1226, establishes clear requirements for how landlords must handle security deposits, what deductions are permissible, and what deadlines landlords must meet when returning deposits to tenants. The statute provides meaningful remedies for tenants when landlords fail to comply with these requirements, including the potential recovery of the full deposit plus actual damages in some circumstances.
Many Virginia Beach tenants experience improper security deposit deductions or unreasonable delays in receiving their deposits back without fully understanding their legal options. Common issues include landlords failing to return deposits within the required 45-day period, deducting for normal wear and tear that is not the tenant's responsibility, making inflated or unsupported damage claims, failing to provide itemized statements of deductions, and retaining deposits for conditions that existed when the tenant moved in. The transient nature of the military community makes security deposit disputes particularly common, as landlords may improperly take advantage of tenants who have already relocated.
This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for Virginia Beach tenants seeking to understand and exercise their security deposit rights. We will examine the specific Virginia statutes that protect you, provide detailed guidance on creating effective demand letters for deposit return, explain the evidence needed to support your claim, identify critical deadlines, and highlight common mistakes that undermine security deposit claims.
The substantial military population in Virginia Beach faces unique challenges with security deposits. Service members and their families frequently move for permanent change of station orders, deployment, or other military requirements. Understanding both the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protections and the additional rights provided by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act helps military families navigate security deposit issues while managing the demands of military service and frequent relocations.
Virginia Security Deposit Law for Virginia Beach Tenants
Virginia Code Section 55.1-1226 establishes the comprehensive legal framework governing security deposits in the Commonwealth. This statute applies to most residential rentals subject to the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA), which covers most rental housing in Virginia Beach except certain exempt properties like single-family homes where the landlord owns no more than two single-family residences and does not use a property manager.
The statute limits the amount of security deposit a landlord may require. Under Section 55.1-1226(A), a landlord may not demand or receive a security deposit in excess of two months' periodic rent. Any deposit exceeding this amount is not enforceable, and tenants can demand the excess be returned. This limit protects tenants from excessive upfront costs and ensures deposits remain proportional to the monthly rent.
Landlords must return security deposits within 45 days after the termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession. This 45-day period, established in Section 55.1-1226(A), is a firm deadline. If the landlord makes deductions from the deposit, the landlord must provide an itemized list of damages and the amount charged for each, along with the remaining balance of the deposit. The itemized statement and any refund must be sent to the tenant at the forwarding address provided by the tenant.
Virginia law specifies what landlords may and may not deduct from security deposits. Landlords may deduct for actual damages to the premises caused by the tenant, but not for ordinary wear and tear. The statute specifically prohibits deductions for conditions existing before the tenant moved in, normal wear and tear that results from reasonable use of the property, or damage caused by other tenants or third parties. Landlords may also deduct for unpaid rent and reasonable charges as specified in the rental agreement.
The statute provides significant remedies when landlords violate security deposit requirements. Under Section 55.1-1226(A), if the landlord does not return the security deposit and provide the required itemized statement within 45 days, the landlord forfeits any right to withhold any portion of the security deposit. This means a landlord who misses the 45-day deadline may be required to return the entire deposit regardless of whether legitimate deductions existed. Additionally, the tenant may recover actual damages suffered as a result of the violation.
Section 55.1-1226(B) addresses situations where the landlord sells or transfers the property during the tenancy. The transferring landlord must either transfer the security deposit to the new owner and notify the tenant of the transfer and the new owner's name and address, or return the deposit to the tenant. The new owner becomes responsible for the deposit if properly transferred.
Virginia Code Section 55.1-1227 prohibits landlords from requiring tenants to waive their security deposit rights. Any provision in a lease agreement that attempts to waive the tenant's rights under the security deposit statute is void and unenforceable. This means landlords cannot contract around their obligations to return deposits timely with proper itemization.
Step-by-Step Guide to Security Deposit Demand Letters in Virginia Beach
Before vacating the property, thoroughly document its condition with dated photographs and video. Photograph every room from multiple angles, including floors, walls, ceilings, windows, and all fixtures. Document the condition of appliances, carpets, and any areas where damage might be alleged. This documentation, compared with your move-in documentation, proves the condition in which you left the property and helps refute false damage claims.
Give proper written notice of your intent to vacate as required by your lease agreement and Virginia law. Include your forwarding address in writing so the landlord knows where to send the security deposit refund and itemized statement. Under Virginia law, the landlord must send the refund and statement to your forwarding address. Retain proof that you provided this address.
Complete your move-out by the date specified in your notice. Remove all personal property and trash. Clean the premises to the same condition as when you moved in, accounting for normal wear and tear. Return all keys, access cards, garage door openers, and other items to the landlord. Document the key return with a receipt or written acknowledgment. The 45-day period for deposit return begins when you deliver possession, which typically means returning all keys.
Virginia law requires landlords to return the security deposit with an itemized statement of any deductions within 45 days after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession. Mark this deadline on your calendar. If the landlord fails to meet this deadline, they may forfeit the right to retain any portion of the deposit regardless of legitimate deductions. Do not assume the landlord will comply; track the deadline carefully.
If you receive an itemized statement of deductions, review it carefully against your move-in and move-out documentation. Compare each claimed damage with photographs showing the condition at move-in and move-out. Note any deductions for normal wear and tear, which are not permitted. Identify any deductions that appear inflated, unsupported, or fraudulent. Calculate whether the deductions and refund add up to your full deposit amount.
Determine the total amount the landlord owes you. Start with your full security deposit amount. Subtract any legitimate deductions for actual damages you caused (not normal wear and tear) and any unpaid rent or valid charges. If the landlord missed the 45-day deadline, you may be entitled to the full deposit regardless of deductions. Add any actual damages you suffered from the delay or improper deductions, such as bounced check fees or other financial harm.
Prepare a professional demand letter requesting return of your security deposit. Include your name, the rental property address, the dates of your tenancy, the amount of your security deposit, and a clear statement of how much you are owed. Reference Virginia Code Section 55.1-1226 and specify which provisions the landlord violated. If the landlord missed the 45-day deadline, state that they have forfeited the right to retain any portion of the deposit. Attach copies of your move-in and move-out documentation.
If the landlord made improper deductions, address each one specifically in your demand letter. For each disputed deduction, explain why it is improper with reference to your documentation. For normal wear and tear deductions, cite the statute's prohibition. For pre-existing conditions, reference your move-in documentation. For inflated charges, provide evidence of reasonable costs. Being specific about disputed deductions strengthens your claim.
Provide a specific deadline for the landlord to respond to your demand, typically 14 to 21 days. State clearly that if the landlord does not return the owed amount by this deadline, you will file suit in Virginia Beach General District Court. The small claims division handles cases up to $5,000. Indicate your willingness to resolve the matter without litigation if the landlord responds appropriately.
Send your demand letter via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested to create proof of delivery. Send it to the landlord's address designated for notices in your lease. If your landlord is a corporation or LLC, also send a copy to the registered agent listed with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. Keep copies of everything including your letter, postal receipts, and return receipt. Also send a copy by email if you have an email address for the landlord.
If the landlord does not respond satisfactorily by your deadline, prepare to file suit in Virginia Beach General District Court. Gather all your documentation including the lease, move-in and move-out photos, your demand letter, proof of delivery, and any communications with the landlord. The small claims division handles cases up to $5,000 and is designed for self-represented litigants.
Essential Evidence for Virginia Beach Security Deposit Claims
Move-In Documentation: The foundation of any security deposit dispute is documentation of the property's condition when you moved in. This includes move-in inspection checklists, photographs, videos, and any written acknowledgments signed by the landlord or property manager. If your landlord provided a move-in inspection form, keep the signed original. If you created your own documentation, retain all photographs and videos with their original date stamps. This evidence proves what conditions existed before your tenancy and cannot be charged to you.
Move-Out Documentation: Equally important is comprehensive documentation of the property's condition when you vacated. Take photographs and video of every room, surface, appliance, and fixture on your move-out date before returning keys. Create a systematic record covering the entire property. Compare this documentation directly with your move-in photos to demonstrate the property's condition did not change beyond normal wear and tear. Keep original digital files with intact metadata.
Lease Agreement: Your lease agreement establishes the terms of your tenancy including the security deposit amount, any permitted deductions or charges, notice requirements, and the landlord's contact information. Some leases include provisions about move-out procedures, cleaning requirements, and condition standards. While lease provisions cannot override statutory protections, they may affect some aspects of your claim. Keep the complete signed lease with all addenda.
Receipt for Security Deposit: If you received a receipt when you paid the security deposit, keep it as proof of the amount paid. If you paid by check, keep records showing the check was deposited. Credit card or bank statements showing the deposit payment can also serve as evidence. This documentation prevents disputes about how much deposit you actually paid.
Forwarding Address Notification: Keep proof that you provided your landlord with a forwarding address. This might be a copy of your move-out notice that included the address, an email providing the address, or a separate written notification. Virginia law requires the landlord to send the deposit and statement to your forwarding address, and proof that you provided one strengthens your claim if the landlord claims they did not know where to send it.
Key Return Documentation: Proof that you returned all keys is important because the 45-day period runs from when you deliver possession. If you obtained a written receipt for keys, keep it. If you returned keys in a manner you can prove (such as with a witness or through a key drop box with a photograph), document this. The landlord cannot extend the 45-day period by claiming you did not properly return possession.
Landlord's Itemized Statement: If the landlord provided an itemized statement of deductions, keep the original. Analyze each line item and compare it with your documentation. Note any deductions that appear to be for normal wear and tear, pre-existing conditions, or inflated amounts. The itemized statement becomes evidence of what the landlord claimed and can be challenged with your own documentation.
Communication Records: Preserve all communications with the landlord about the security deposit including emails, text messages, letters, and notes from phone conversations. If you complained about improper deductions and the landlord responded, keep those records. Communications may reveal admissions by the landlord or demonstrate bad faith. If you must speak by phone, follow up with an email confirming what was discussed.
Cost Documentation: If you are challenging inflated repair charges, gather evidence of reasonable costs. This might include estimates from contractors for the claimed repairs, receipts showing typical prices for materials, or documentation of what the landlord actually spent. Many landlords claim costs far exceeding what repairs actually cost, and you can challenge these inflated deductions.
Damages Evidence: If the landlord's failure to timely return your deposit caused you actual damages, document them. This includes bank overdraft fees caused by counting on the deposit, credit damage from inability to pay bills, costs of temporary housing while waiting for the deposit, or other financial harm directly caused by the wrongful retention.
Critical Deadlines for Security Deposit Claims in Virginia
45-Day Return Deadline: Virginia Code Section 55.1-1226(A) requires landlords to return security deposits within 45 days after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession. This deadline is calculated from the later of the lease termination date or the date you returned keys and delivered possession. If the landlord fails to meet this deadline, they may forfeit the right to retain any portion of the deposit, regardless of whether they have legitimate claims for damages. Track this deadline carefully.
Itemized Statement Requirement: Within the same 45-day period, if the landlord makes any deductions, they must provide an itemized list of damages and the amount charged for each. The statement must be sent to the tenant's forwarding address. A landlord who retains portions of the deposit without providing this itemization within 45 days violates the statute and may be liable for the full deposit amount.
Lease Termination Notice: Your lease agreement specifies how much notice you must give before terminating the tenancy. Typically this is 30 days for month-to-month tenancies. Failing to give proper notice may allow the landlord to deduct unpaid rent from your deposit. If you are a military member exercising SCRA rights to terminate, follow the statutory notice requirements under federal law. Proper notice sets up the timeline for deposit return.
Move-Out Date: Ensure you vacate and return possession by the date specified in your termination notice. If you stay past this date, the landlord may deduct additional rent from your deposit. If you leave early without notifying the landlord, the 45-day period may not begin until they actually know you have vacated and have access to the property.
Demand Letter Response Deadline: When you send a demand letter, set a reasonable deadline for response, typically 14 to 21 days. This deadline should give the landlord time to receive and review your letter but not so long that it unduly delays resolution. A specific date works better than a relative timeframe like "two weeks" to avoid ambiguity.
Statute of Limitations: Virginia has a five-year statute of limitations for breach of contract claims and statutory violations under Virginia Code Section 8.01-246. While you should not wait anywhere close to five years to pursue a security deposit claim, understanding this deadline ensures you do not inadvertently lose your right to sue. Courts favor prompt action, and evidence becomes harder to gather over time.
Small Claims Court Filing: If your demand letter does not resolve the dispute, you can file suit in Virginia Beach General District Court at any time before the statute of limitations expires. The small claims division handles cases up to $5,000 and uses simplified procedures. There are filing fees based on the amount of your claim. Most security deposit cases can be resolved through small claims court.
Military-Specific Timelines: For military members who terminated their lease under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act due to PCS orders or deployment, the lease termination is effective 30 days after the next rent payment is due following proper notice. The security deposit return timeline then runs from this termination date. Military legal assistance offices can help verify these dates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Virginia Beach Security Deposit Claims
Failing to Document Move-In Condition: The most critical mistake tenants make is not thoroughly documenting the property's condition when they move in. Without move-in photos, you cannot prove that damage claimed by the landlord existed before your tenancy. Take comprehensive photographs and video of every room, surface, and fixture on your first day. Request a move-in inspection with the landlord or property manager and keep the signed checklist. This documentation is your primary defense against false damage claims.
Not Providing a Forwarding Address in Writing: Virginia law requires the landlord to send the deposit and itemized statement to your forwarding address. If you fail to provide a forwarding address, the landlord may have an excuse for not returning your deposit promptly. Always provide your forwarding address in writing, keep a copy, and use a method that provides proof of delivery. Include the address in your move-out notice.
Not Tracking the 45-Day Deadline: Many tenants simply wait for their deposit to arrive without tracking the legal deadline. If the landlord misses the 45-day deadline, they forfeit the right to retain any portion of the deposit. Mark this deadline on your calendar and be prepared to send a demand letter immediately if it passes without receiving your deposit or a proper itemized statement.
Accepting Improper Deductions Without Challenge: Some tenants assume the landlord's deductions are legitimate without carefully reviewing them against move-in and move-out documentation. Normal wear and tear is not chargeable to tenants. Pre-existing conditions are not your responsibility. Inflated repair costs can be challenged. Review each deduction carefully and dispute those that are improper.
Confusing Normal Wear and Tear with Damage: Normal wear and tear includes minor scuffs on walls, wear patterns on carpet in traffic areas, faded paint, and similar deterioration from ordinary use. Damage, by contrast, includes holes in walls, burns, stains from spills, broken fixtures, and deterioration beyond normal use. Landlords often improperly characterize normal wear as damage. Understand the distinction and challenge improper characterizations.
Not Keeping Copies of All Documents: Tenants sometimes fail to keep copies of their lease, deposit receipt, move-in and move-out photos, correspondence, and other critical documents. If a dispute goes to court, you need documentary evidence to prove your case. Create backups of all documents and store them in multiple locations. Digital photos should be preserved with original metadata.
Relying on Verbal Agreements: Any agreements with the landlord about deposit return, deductions, or move-out conditions should be in writing. Verbal promises are difficult to prove and may not be enforceable. If the landlord agrees to return your deposit in full, get it in writing. If you negotiate a settlement of disputed deductions, document the agreement before accepting any payment.
Waiting Too Long to Take Action: While Virginia has a five-year statute of limitations, waiting too long to pursue your security deposit claim is a mistake. Evidence becomes harder to gather, witnesses become harder to locate, and courts may view your delay unfavorably. Send a demand letter promptly after the 45-day deadline passes and file suit if necessary within a reasonable time.
Not Understanding the Forfeiture Rule: Many tenants do not realize that if the landlord misses the 45-day deadline, they forfeit the right to retain any portion of the deposit regardless of whether they have legitimate damage claims. This powerful protection is useless if you do not invoke it. Your demand letter should specifically cite this forfeiture provision if the deadline has passed.
Failing to Sue in the Proper Court: Security deposit claims of $5,000 or less should be filed in the General District Court small claims division. Claims between $5,000 and $25,000 go to regular General District Court. Filing in the wrong court wastes time and money. Verify the proper court for your claim amount before filing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Security Deposits in Virginia Beach
Under Virginia Code Section 55.1-1226(A), a landlord may not require a security deposit exceeding two months' periodic rent. If you pay monthly rent of $1,500, the maximum deposit is $3,000. Any deposit exceeding this limit is not enforceable, and you can demand the excess be returned. This limit applies regardless of what the lease agreement states.
Virginia law requires landlords to return security deposits within 45 days after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession. If the landlord makes deductions, they must also provide an itemized statement of damages within this 45-day period. Failure to meet this deadline means the landlord forfeits the right to retain any portion of the deposit.
Under Virginia Code Section 55.1-1226(A), if the landlord does not return the security deposit with the required itemized statement within 45 days, the landlord forfeits any right to withhold any portion of the security deposit. This means you may be entitled to the full deposit even if the landlord had legitimate deductions. You may also recover actual damages caused by the violation.
No. Virginia law prohibits landlords from deducting for conditions resulting from ordinary wear and tear. Normal wear includes minor scuffs on walls, wear patterns on carpet in traffic areas, faded paint, and similar deterioration from reasonable use. Landlords may only deduct for actual damages caused by the tenant, not the normal aging of the property during tenancy.
The itemized statement must list each specific damage and the amount charged for each item. General statements like 'cleaning and repairs' are insufficient. The statement should identify each damaged item, describe the damage, and state the cost charged. If the statement lacks this specificity, it may not satisfy the statutory requirement, potentially triggering forfeiture of the landlord's right to retain any deposit.
Virginia General District Court has a small claims division that handles cases up to $5,000. This limit is sufficient for most security deposit disputes. The small claims division uses simplified procedures designed for self-represented litigants. For claims between $5,000 and $25,000, you can file in regular General District Court.
For most security deposit cases within the small claims limit ($5,000), you can represent yourself effectively. The procedures are designed for self-represented litigants. For complex cases, larger amounts, or if the landlord has an attorney, you may want legal representation. Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia provides free services to eligible low-income individuals.
Military tenants have the same rights under Virginia law as all other tenants. If you terminated your lease under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act due to PCS orders or deployment, the landlord must still return your deposit within 45 days. Military legal assistance offices at local installations can provide free guidance. Contact the legal office at your installation for assistance with security deposit disputes.
What to Expect When Resolving Security Deposit Disputes in Virginia Beach
Settlement expectations in security deposit disputes depend on several factors including whether the landlord met the 45-day deadline, the legitimacy of any deductions taken, the quality of your documentation, and the landlord's willingness to negotiate rather than litigate.
If the landlord missed the 45-day return deadline, you have significant leverage because Virginia law provides that the landlord forfeits the right to retain any portion of the deposit. In these cases, many landlords will quickly agree to return the full deposit once they receive a demand letter citing this statutory forfeiture provision. The threat of court action, where the landlord would likely lose and potentially pay court costs, often motivates prompt resolution.
For cases where the landlord met the deadline but made improper deductions, resolution depends on the strength of your documentation. If you have clear move-in and move-out photographs proving that claimed damage either did not exist or existed before your tenancy, landlords often reduce or eliminate disputed deductions rather than face litigation. Well-documented cases typically achieve favorable outcomes because landlords recognize they will likely lose in court.
Negotiation dynamics vary by landlord type. Large property management companies, particularly those serving the military community, often have established procedures for handling deposit disputes and may respond efficiently to documented claims. Small individual landlords may be more resistant initially but often reconsider when faced with specific evidence and the prospect of court costs. Some landlords will negotiate in good faith once they realize the tenant understands the law and has proper documentation.
When evaluating settlement offers, consider the full value of your claim against the time and effort of pursuing litigation. If the landlord offers to return a substantial portion of a disputed deposit, accepting may be preferable to spending months in court over the remainder. However, do not accept clearly inadequate offers just to avoid conflict, especially when you have strong documentation and the law clearly supports your position.
Document all settlement negotiations in writing. If you reach an agreement, get the terms in writing specifying the exact amount to be paid, the payment deadline, and whether the settlement resolves all claims. Do not sign releases that go beyond the security deposit dispute without understanding their full implications. Payment should be made promptly per the agreement before you consider the matter closed.
Virginia Beach Security Deposit Resources and Contacts
Virginia Beach General District Court: Handles security deposit cases including small claims up to $5,000 and civil cases up to $25,000.
Address: 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Building 10A, Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Phone: (757) 385-8531
Website: courts.state.va.us
Small Claims Division: Simplified procedures for claims up to $5,000
Virginia Beach Circuit Court Clerk: For appeals from General District Court or claims exceeding $25,000.
Address: 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Building 10, Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Phone: (757) 385-4181
Website: courts.state.va.us
Virginia Attorney General Office of Consumer Protection: Can assist with landlord-tenant complaints and patterns of violations.
Consumer Protection Hotline: (800) 552-9963
Hampton Roads Area: (757) 963-2805
Website: oag.state.va.us
Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia: Provides free legal services to eligible low-income individuals for landlord-tenant matters including security deposit disputes.
Phone: (757) 627-5423
Website: laseva.org
Address: 125 St. Paul's Boulevard, Suite 400, Norfolk, VA 23510
Virginia Poverty Law Center: Provides resources and advocacy on housing issues.
Phone: (804) 782-9430
Website: vplc.org
Virginia State Bar Lawyer Referral Service: Attorney referrals for landlord-tenant matters.
Phone: (800) 552-7977
Website: vsb.org
Virginia State Corporation Commission: Search for landlord business registration and registered agent information.
Website: scc.virginia.gov
Clerk's Office: (804) 371-9733
Military Legal Assistance Offices: Free legal assistance for active duty service members and dependents with security deposit disputes.
Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Legal Assistance: (757) 462-7486
Naval Station Norfolk Legal Assistance: (757) 322-5611
NAS Oceana Legal Office: (757) 433-2442
Dam Neck Legal Assistance: (757) 433-3061
Virginia Fair Housing Office: If security deposit issues involve discrimination.
Phone: (888) 551-3247
Website: dpor.virginia.gov/FairHousing
Virginia Beach Department of Housing and Neighborhood Preservation: General housing resources and information.
Address: 2424 Courthouse Drive, Building 18A, Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Phone: (757) 385-5750
Website: virginiabeach.gov
The Rules They Don't Want You to Know
The Clock is Your Weapon
Most states give landlords 21-30 days to return your deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions. Know your state's deadline.
Document Everything
Photos, videos, inspection reports – evidence is king. Got proof? Use it.
Make Them Show Their Math
They can't just pocket your cash. Demand itemized deductions. No receipts? Demand a full refund.
The Security Deposit Power Play
Many states allow for double or triple damages for bad faith retention. Know the law, and don't be afraid to use it.
Virginia Security Deposit Laws
Applicable Laws
- Va. Code § 55.1-1226
Small Claims Limit
$5,000
Consumer Protection Agency
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development
Security Deposit Real Talk
When do I send my demand letter?
Day after their legal deadline expires. Not a day later. They're banking on your hesitation.
What if they ghost me?
That's when it gets interesting. Document everything and head to small claims court. The judge won't be impressed by their silence.
What's normal wear and tear?
Minor scuffs, small nail holes, faded paint, worn carpet in traffic areas. Not normal: holes in walls, stains, broken fixtures, or pet damage.
Can they deduct for professional cleaning?
Only if you left the place dirtier than when you moved in. Normal cleaning isn't your responsibility if you left it reasonably clean.
What if I didn't do a move-in inspection?
Makes it harder to dispute pre-existing damage, but not impossible. Photos from online listings, previous tenant testimony, or property age can help.
How much can I sue for?
The deposit amount plus penalties. Many states award 2x or 3x damages for bad faith retention, plus court costs and sometimes attorney fees.
What if my landlord sold the property?
The new owner typically inherits deposit obligations. Both old and new owners may be liable. Check your state's transfer requirements.
About FreeDemandLetter
FreeDemandLetter provides free, AI-powered demand letter generation with location-specific legal citations. Our content is reviewed by subject matter specialists and regularly updated to reflect current laws. We help thousands of people resolve disputes effectively—but we're not lawyers, and this isn't legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.
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