How long after vacating an apartment can a landlord come after me for more money?
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How long after vacating an apartment can a landlord come after me for more money?
I vacated the apartment over 7 months ago. When I moved into the apartment, I paid a non-refundable damage/cleaning deposit of $300. I just received a letter from the landlord asking for an additional $136 for various things such as replacing sections of carpet to a damaged towel rack. Can they come after me after this much time has passed?
Asked on March 7, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Washington
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Yes, the landlord may take action against you seven months later. The landlord may pursue you for money he believes you owe, such as for damage you did to a towel rack, at any time before the expiration of the statute of limitations, or time to sue. In your state, for an oral lease, that would be three years. For a written lease, it would be six years. Therefore, the landlord can certainly seek money severn months later.
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