My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: Texas
Hi all!
I'm more here for confirmation that what I have read and understand is correct in this matter.
I have just moved out of my first apartment, and after the move-out inspection (which I asked to be present for--was not notified about occurrence or invited to attend) was completed, we received notification that our apartment needs to be treated for pet odor with an ozone machine and we will be charged accordingly (deducted from the security deposit). We had a 20 lb dog on the lease who is 10 years old, completely potty trained (he can seriously go 14+ hours without a potty break), and was bathed/groomed regularly, etc etc..point is my dog was not stinky and never ever had accidents in the apartment.
I cleaned the apartment top to bottom, shampooed the carpet (bedroom was only carpeted area) until the water ran clear, and the very last thing I did was a final vacuum on the bedroom floor and a mop down on the vinyl flooring throughout. I mean it when I say this apartment was spotless. It did not stink, there were no stains on the carpet, and I even did the final mop with some baby oil mixed in the water so that the vinyl would SHINE! Yes, I am crazy and I wanted my deposit back 100%!
My guess here is that the apartment manager couldn't find anything wrong, so she made up the pet odor because it is near impossible to prove that pet odor did not exist, especially if the ozone treatment has already been done (just received the email regarding the matter about an hour ago). Just another way to screw us and take our money..
So...my understanding is: nothing I can do, right? I'm planning to ask for a receipt from the ozone treatment, to prove they even had it done. But still..no way to get my full deposit as I see it.
Thanks in advance for your insight.

