If after receiving my security deposit statement and disputing a sum that they agreed to take off, can they then add more charges to the next statement?

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If after receiving my security deposit statement and disputing a sum that they agreed to take off, can they then add more charges to the next statement?

My security deposit was $515. They charged me for $250 for the carpet and $470 for bathroom floor damage. I disputed the bathroom floor damage and they told me they would take it off and send me another statement but now they are saying there may be new charges to it. Can they legally do this after sending out the initial statement?

Asked on November 29, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Ohio

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

Unfortunately for you, your presumed former landlord can agree to cancel prior debits from your security deposit yet state that there could be "other" charges that may be applied to your security deposit. Whether this is proper remains to be seen.

You need to be aware that in most states, a former landlord is required to return a former tenant's security deposit within 21 to 45 days of move out depending upon the state's laws where the rental is. If the full amount of the security deposit is not returned in this 21 to 45 day period, the landlord must state in writing what the used security deposit was for and give copies of receipts and invoices showing what repairs were made.


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