Am I entitled to the $200 of the security deposit given to the landlord?

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Am I entitled to the $200 of the security deposit given to the landlord?

Recently I met with a landlord about renting their house. During the initial meeting, she stated that she would not require a credit/criminal check due to a good reference given to her and because she knew that I’ve been at my job for over 5 years. I met with her 2 weeks later and paid $200 of a $500 security deposit on the place. This week I contacted her to set a date/time to meet her and she stated that she needs a copy of our criminal record and our SSN’s. Now, she is denying me because I will not provide it after having a problem with her doing the process wrong.

Asked on November 27, 2011 under Real Estate Law, North Carolina

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

If you never was able to occupy the unit that you initially wanted to rent and you gave the landlord a $200 security deposit, she is required to immediately return to you the money if you are not going to occupy the unit.

I would write the landlord a letter requesting the return of your security deposit by a certain date. If that date comes and goes, your option is to forget about the $200.00 or file a small claims action against the landlord. Make sure that you keep a copy of the demand letter for future reference.


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