Potential Roommate Paid Deposit But Isn't Moving In
My question involves a security deposit in the State of Georgia.
I am a home owner and looking for a roommate. I had posted several ads and got one person who gave me a security deposit to secure the room. She has since decided not to move in. She is asking for the money back. Am I entitled to return the deposit to her since she has not fulfilled her obligation to move in? No lease was signed yet.
Thanks!
Re: Potential Roommate Paid Deposit But Isn't Moving In
She was supposed to move in when? She paid the security deposit when? She gave you notice that she had changed her mind when? The agreement was for a tenancy lasting how long (or simply month-to-month)? Are you presently seeking a replacement tenant?
Re: Potential Roommate Paid Deposit But Isn't Moving In
She was supposed to move in mid-February (around 2-15). She had planned to do a 6-month contract. She paid the security deposit on December 31st. She gave me notice that she changed her mind on January 13th (2 weeks later).
I am current seeking a replacement tenant. However, I had missed out on 5 opportunities after she secured the room. These 5 people were ready to give me a security deposit and I had to tell them no. They have since found a room.
I believe, even if I do return the deposit, I do have 30 days, right? She has caused me financial damages.
Also, she had NOT signed my lease yet. This was all verbal agreements that she was planning to move in. I was counting on her and relying on her to move in. She broke the verbal agreement.