How long does a landlord have to retun a security deposit?
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How long does a landlord have to retun a security deposit?
I have a question about my security deposit refund from my landlord. Today is the 7th. My lease ended on the 31st of the month before last; I did not renew the lease. I also told my landlord that I moved out the 20th of that month. After contacting her 10 days later to inquire about the return of my security deposit and where to mail it, she said that she will need a month to asses how much to return to me. However, 7 days beyond the month she asked for, she still did not send me my deposit and just emailed me a message saying that she used $865 out of the $900 security deposit to fix up the place. In all of my years of renting, I have always been returned my security deposit in full.
Asked on September 7, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Arizona
Answers:
Anne Brady / Law Office of Anne Brady
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
In Arizona, within 14 business days after termination of the tenancy AND demand by the tenant for return of the security deposit, the landlord shall provide the tenant with an itemized list of all deductions together with the amount due and payable to the tenant. ARS 33-1321.D. An email about spending $865 to "fix up the place" is not sufficient. If the landlord fails to comply with this law, the tenant may recover treble (triple) damages.
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