Security Deposit in Georgia
My question involves a security deposit in the State of: Georgia
My lease was up Jan 31st. I moved out Jan 29th, and left the townhouse I was renting in IMMACULATE condition. Cleaned from top to bottom, and even had the carpets steam cleaned like it said in the lease agreement. When I moved in the rental unit, the fridge was molded, the bathrooms had scum and hair and were very dirty, floors not clean, etc... If I knew it was in that condition and I did not have my UHAUL with me when I got the key I wouldnt have moved in..
Anyway After contacting my rental company over 5 times to see where my security deposit was, they finally sent it on April 21st 2010. They dated the letter for Feb 26th, acting like they sent it then to cover their asses for the 30 day law. My deposit was for $800.00 and they sent me a check for 400.
They took out 250 for lawn service. They mowed a 5'x5' yard which took approximately 3 minutes total each time and then charged me 150 for cleaning the place when I have pictures I took from before I moved in and after I moved out... Is this legal, to charge me bullshit just to get some money. Also the fact that it took 80 days for them to send me my deposit. I also never received a move out inspection from them. I didn't even hear from them until I called them after 30 days to see where my money was.
Can I get some advice? I have not cashed the check yet and I plan on sending back the check, along with the move in and move out pictures and try to get my money back and since it took them 80 days, do they HAVE to give me the full amount back?
Thanks
Re: Security Deposit in Georgia
Don't send the check back. Hang on to it.
First, send your landlord a demand for the rest of your deposit, and enclose copies of your photos. You can find a sample demand letter at the bottom of this page.
If he fails to return your deposit, you can sue him in Magistrate Court. Contact the Clerk for forms and fee schedules.