My question involves a security deposit in the State of Florida.
My apartment complex is withholding approximately $160 of my security deposit, out of the total $200.
Briefly, I moved into the apartment 2 years ago on July 2, 2006, and moved out on July 2, 2008. Each month, we are provided with an accounting of what was owed, which consisted of rent, water, sewage, and trash. Upon moving out, I received an itemized account of the deductions from my security deposit and there are some things that do not add up.
1. They are withholding rent for 2 days: July 1st and July 2nd, 2008. Can they do this even though my lease began on July 2, 2006 and gave me a move-out date on the 2nd of 2008?
2. They are assessing money for unpaid water, trash, & sewage claiming that I did not receive my first bill until September 2006, 3 months after I had moved in. They never told me that we did not pay for those months UNTIL I moved out, 2 years later. I do not have any receipts since it was about 2 years ago. As I recall, my roommates and I always paid rent including these other charges each month. Because I had 2 other roommates at the time and split everything, I have no proof of payment. Can they assess that amount against me?
After I received the itemized account of what was being assessed against my security deposit, I sent a written objection within the time frame required by the Florida statute. In that letter, I request proof or an accounting, showing what I did not paid. When I received my reply from the apartment complex, they did not provide me with anything. The property manager just explained the circumstances around each charge and stated that no adjustment will be made.
I've looked into small claims court but the filing fee, here in Orlando, is $300. What should I do now? Any assistance in this matter is greatly appreciated.

