Security Deposit Refund, Request By Tenant
Security Deposit Refund, Request by Tenant
Dear ____________:
My lease for ____________________ ends on _______________. When the lease started, I paid you $_______ as a security deposit. I request that a full refund of the security deposit be mailed to the following address: _____________________________ ___________________________________________.
Thank you for all your helpfulness during my tenancy. If you can do it, I would appreciate receiving my Security Deposit back within the next two weeks. If any portion of the security deposit is not returned, please send a written explanation detailing your reasons.
Thank you again for your help,
Best regards,
____________
Tenant
Security Deposit Refund, Request by Tenant
Review ListThis review list is provided to inform you about this document in question and assist you in its preparation. Early submission of your request, and politely done (this is a Sales call, after all), will give you the best results. Keep a copy so you can mail it out in two weeks, with a notation “Second Notice” in handwriting, will help encourage compliance by the Landlord. Many Landlords try to “get away” with not paying Security Deposits back, especially if they only own a few units.
If the Landlord does not pay up in a reasonable amount of time, file a claim in Small Claims Court. Landlords usually lose on these kinds of issues plus get admonished by the Judge. So filing these claims can often result in a payment prior to any court appearance being necessary. In other words, your filing in Small Claims Court will leverage compliance by the Landlord.
Also, if the Landlord has tried to make unreasonable deductions, the act of filing in Small Claims Court will soften their approach to the deductions, knowing they will lose most of them if they go to court-given most small claim courts biases in favor of Tenants over Landlords.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I write a security deposit refund request letter as a tenant?
Use a formal letter addressed to your landlord that includes your lease end date, the amount of the security deposit you paid, and the address where you want the refund mailed. Request a full refund and ask for a written explanation if any portion is not returned. Keep a copy of the letter for your records.
What should I include in a security deposit refund request?
Your letter should state the lease end date, the amount of the security deposit, and the address for the refund. It should also request a full refund and ask for a written explanation if any part is withheld. Including a polite thank-you can help maintain a positive tone.
When should I send my security deposit refund request?
The article advises early submission of your request to give you the best results. Sending it promptly after your lease ends shows you are organized and proactive. If you do not receive the refund within two weeks, you can send a second notice.
What if my landlord does not return my security deposit?
If any portion of the security deposit is not returned, the article suggests sending a written request for a detailed explanation of the reasons. If you still do not receive it, you can mail a copy of your original request with a handwritten notation 'Second Notice' to encourage compliance. Many landlords try to avoid paying security deposits back, so persistence is important.
How can I politely ask for my security deposit back?
The article recommends a polite tone, describing the request as a 'Sales call.' You can thank the landlord for their helpfulness during your tenancy and express appreciation for receiving the deposit within two weeks. This approach may improve your chances of a smooth refund.
What is a 'Second Notice' for a security deposit refund?
A 'Second Notice' is a follow-up to your original refund request, sent if the landlord does not respond within two weeks. The article suggests keeping a copy of your first letter so you can mail it out again with a handwritten notation 'Second Notice' to encourage compliance. This serves as a reminder and creates a paper trail.
Can a landlord keep my security deposit without explanation?
The article implies that landlords should provide a written explanation if any portion of the security deposit is not returned. It notes that many landlords try to 'get away' with not paying security deposits back. Therefore, you should request a detailed explanation to hold them accountable.
How long should I wait for my security deposit refund?
The article suggests requesting the refund within two weeks after your lease ends. If you do not receive it by then, you can send a second notice. There is no guarantee, but a polite and timely request may help expedite the process.
What address should I provide for my security deposit refund?
You should provide the address where you want the refund mailed, which may be your new home. The article includes a placeholder for this address in the letter template. Make sure it is accurate and complete.
Why is it important to keep a copy of my security deposit refund request?
Keeping a copy allows you to send a second notice if the landlord does not comply within two weeks. It also provides proof of your request in case of a dispute. The article specifically advises keeping a copy for this purpose.
