How many times have you received little or nothing from your security deposit after you move out of a rental unit? If you can’t count on one hand, you’re not alone.
California law requires landlords provide a written itemization of deductions from your security deposit within 21 days of moving out. Many landlords comply with this deadline but make deductions for improper reasons. Some of the more egregious deductions I've seen include fuel surcharges, charges for cleaning outside screens, and charges for trimming rose bushes. Each of these deductions were improper.
Often, and what is worse, some landlords fail to provide any itemization whatsoever within the 21 days. When this happens, the California Supreme Court has made it clear that the landlord forfeits the right to keep any portion of the security deposit and must refund the deposit in its entirety. Small claims court is your best recourse.
If you're interesting in learning more about landord-tenant issues, feel free to contact me at (530) 243-6000 or by email.
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