What do I do if my landlord won’t give me back my deposit?
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What do I do if my landlord won’t give me back my deposit?
I moved out 2 months ago and my landlord just ignores me and does not want to give me my deposit back. There was no damage to the property, only dirty spots on the walls and carpet. I lived there for 3 years. For the first year we had a contract but not for the other 2. I took pictures when I moved out. What should I do?
Asked on November 10, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Illinois
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If your former landlord refuses to return to you your security deposit, you should do the following:
1. write him or her one last letter demanding its return by a certain date. Keep a copy of the letter for future reference.
2. if you do not receive the return of the security deposit by the demanded date, your option is to file a small claims action against him or her for the return of your security deposit with accrued interest and any statutory penalty.
Good luck.
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