My question involves a security deposit in the State of: Pennsylvania
I moved into a place that was on a month to month basis, which also contained no written agreement. It was all on a verbal agreement that it was a month to month arrangement with $450 monthly, and $450 security deposit. It was a house that would hold 3 "roommates", main roommate being the sub-landlord/lease holder. The house owner lived next door; however, the main roommate had the lease in his name and was acting landlord.
After 2 months, I notified the landlord (lease holder) on July 2nd, 2007 that I was moving to California and I was giving him 30 days notice. I moved out of the house on July 28th, 2007... and left my keys and written forwarding address with him before leaving.
After a few weeks I talked with him and found out that someone moved into the house, but they did not move into my room; however, they moved into another room. He proceeded to tell me that once he had someone moved into my room, he would refund me my security deposit. I advised him that Pennsylvania Law cites that he needs to refund me a security deposit after 30 days of my move out date.
I let things go for a while, and after a few months I attempted to contact him again; however he now has my emails and instant messengers on block. I created new emails and instant messengers, and he immediately blocks the new ones. After a few rounds of this behavior, and emails I sent to him stating I could take him to small claims court and ask for double the amount; however I just want my $450. He finally agrees to pay me, and he drops off the face of the planet again. I have been attempting to get my security deposit back from him for a little over a year now.
I want to take him to Small Claims Court; however, I will have to go through Pennsylvania's Small Claims since that's where the incident happened. Is there any telecommunication method I could use? I cannot validate taking time off of work, spending $500 for a round trip plane ticket, hotel fee's, meals, only to reclaim $450. I just want my money back that's mine. Any ideas? Thanks!

