Can handle disputes over recovery of security deposit between tenant and the landlord legally if negotiation and discussion with the landlord do not help.
LegalShield can assist you with expert advice and procedure for receiving your security deposit back without hassles.
A landlord-tenant attorney is well aware of state laws and rules, such as the percentage of rent the landlords can retain as the security deposit when they can use up the same; or the return timeline.
It is best to consult with LegalShield because there are chances that the security deposit amount exceeds the maximum claim amount. In such instances, hiring an attorney to represent in civil court can also help recover the lawyer’s fees on winning the suit.
Security deposit is an amount taken before you move into the apartment, which will ensure that the landlord has money to cover for:
- Repairing substantial damage but not for ordinary wear and tear
- Unpaid rent or other expenses such as unpaid utility bills etc.
- Cleaning the premises so you can keep the apartment as clean as when you moved in.
Before taking any legal action, the landlord-tenant lawyer will also check on the criteria mentioned above, along with essential laws and documents.
If the attorney you consult at LegalShield finds that the landlord has misappropriated or not returned the due security deposit, they can file a lawsuit in the small claims court. The attorney will put the best defense forward to deal with counterclaims, if any, by the landlord.
Have a complete idea about the timeline for the landlord to return the security deposit; refer to the information below:
- No deadline: West Virginia and Tennessee
- 30 days: Michigan, North Carolina, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Arkansas, Connecticut, Illinois, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Maine, Massachusetts, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania
- One month: Louisiana, Colorado, Georgia
- 45 days: Virginia, Indiana, Maryland, District of Columbia, Mississippi
- 21 days: Minnesota, California, Idaho
- 20 days: Rhode Island and Delaware
- 14 days: Vermont, Washington, Nebraska, South Dakota, Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii
- Others: Oregon (31 days), Alabama (35 days), New York (a reasonable time), Florida (15 to 60 days – in case the tenant disputes for any unfair deductions)
Though most landlords follow the rules to return security deposits, sometimes, there could dispute involved. LegalShield provides you with a well-informed landlord-tenant lawyer who will guide you through your state law and help you get the security deposit back.