| >discusses how a renter can get back his security | | | | be normal wear and tear. |
| deposit. Typically a lease is cut and dry between | | | | Now that we have cleared this up, what are the rules |
| apartment communities and their respective tenants. | | | | regarding the return of the security deposit in the eyes |
| Many times however, there is a dispute that arises | | | | of the law. |
| between the apartment community and the respective | | | | In Texas, the landlord must return your security deposit |
| tenant. | | | | within 30 days after you have moved out of the rental |
| Normally this always boils down to the security deposit. | | | | in which you called home. Be sure and leave a |
| Many renter’s claim they never received their | | | | forwarding address so the landlord knows where to |
| security deposit back, or that the owner did not return | | | | mail your payment. |
| their security deposit in full. | | | | If your landlord deducts any fees, he must provide you |
| Actually the security deposit is the center of much | | | | with an itemized list of the deductions. |
| frustration and causes a stressful situation for many | | | | Moving right along, if you do not receive your security |
| parties. | | | | deposit, you have the choice of taking the landlord to |
| The renter is normally responsible for maintaining the | | | | court. And make sure you have paid all your rent up to |
| apartment home. And normal wear and tear items | | | | date. |
| should not be deducted from the security deposit. Of | | | | Texas law allows a renter to sue the landlord for three |
| course what is defined as "normal wear and tear" can | | | | times the security deposit plus a $100 fine. So if you |
| also be the cause of much of the confusion. | | | | security deposit is $1000, then you could potentially sue |
| During the time of your lease if you stain your | | | | for $3100. |
| carpeting, or damage the walls, or break one of your | | | | You will have to go to small claims court and state |
| windows, this would obviously exceed normal wear | | | | your case. It could take months for you to get a case |
| and tear. Carpet that is not stained, but obviously has | | | | before a judge but rest assured it will be well worth it. |
| been worn down by repeated renters would fall under | | | | The landlord would be smart to send your security |
| normal wear and tear. | | | | deposit refund as soon as possible. However, if he is |
| If your washing machine breaks due to normal use or | | | | bankrupt you may find yourself with a problem. |
| your refrigerator ceases to work, these items would | | | | |