My question involves a security deposit in the State of: California

I rented a townhouse in Agoura Hills California for six years. Initially I was on a year lease which then became month to month. I gave a 30 day notice which would require me to vacate May 3, 2008. I was out on time with the townhouse cleaner and in better condition than when I moved in.

I called the property manager May 21 2008 to follow up on my reimbursement and he said I should have my deposit back that week - that he would "look onto it" and let me know. He never got back to me. May 24 was 21 days and I have not recieived my deposit of $1,500.00 (plus interest? is interest required?)

I sent a letter to the manager stating the owner was now in violation of Civil Code Section 1950.5. I paid for a certificate of mailing as proof.

Today I called and talked to the manager. He said he never recieved the letter, claimed the check was sent to my old address and should be forwarded to me. I asked when it was sent he said he was not sure but said he "called them after we talked" (05-21-08) so "it was probably mailed on thursday or friday, I don't know" (05-22-08 or 05-23-08).

I asked if the refund check was for the full $1,500.00 and he said a standard cleaning fee of about $200.00 was deducted and was unsure if any other amount was deducted. He advised me to wait for the check and call him back to discuss it since he was unsure about other deductions.

Since it has been over 21 days, am I not entitled to the entire $1,500.00? Also, is it futile to file with small claims court since the check may be "in the mail" and am I entitled to statuatory damages and interest as well even if I get the check (with deductions) in the interim?

Thank you for any assistance, it is greatly appreciated.