this guy moved out of an apartment with us TWO YEARS ago… He sends me this email last month.

To whom it may concern,

I am writing to you to request that you adjust and return my security deposit, amended for deductions, pursuant to the terms of both our rental agreement and California Civil Code 1950.5.

The basis for my claim is as follows:

·         Cleaning: Of kitchen, stove, sink and bathroom – $75.00

o   I hired a professional cleaning service that addressed all of these areas. I am demanding this $75.00 deduction be reimbursed.

·         Damages: Patch and paint nail holes and damages throughout the apartment $275.00

o   I spend approximately 20 hours patching and painting the entire apartment. I am demanding this $275.00 deduction be reimbursed.

·         Damages: Buff out hardwood floor scratches $350.00

o   There was only normal wear and tear caused to the floor without any excessive damage. Under California Civil Code 1950.5, I am demanding this $350.00 deduction be reimbursed.

I included a photocopy of the security deposit, check # 7173 for $779.55 that was never cashed in my signature required USPS priority mail that was received today at 10:43 AM. I expect to receive the amount of $1,479.55 representing the uncashed check and the three items described above. This dispute could have been avoided simply had you complied with the agreed upon arrangement whereby your office would call me between 4-5PM when the inspector was in en route so I could be present for the final walk though inspection.

I expect a resolution to this demand within 7 business days or else I will pursue satisfaction in small claims court.

Regards,              

Tyler

Well we dont take lightly to threats around my office so I sent him this e-mail back:

Dear Mr. Peterson,

We received your email dated September 21, 2011. You have waited 2 years to make these claims. As can be seen in the photographs sent to you at the time of your move out your story does not hold up against the actual facts. The deductions were proper, timely and lawful. Perhaps you should seek reimbursement from the ones you claim did your work.

Your stove, oven, and bathroom were left filthy.

Although you may have painted the unit it is clear from the pictures that the wrong colors were used and the painting was substandard. Therefore we had to re-paint the apartment along with sanding and patching numerous nail holes.

Your hardwood floors were scratched and gouged. At no point are gouges, scratches, dirt, nail holes, and scuff marks “normal wear and tear”. They needed to be refinished.

Attached again please find pictures from your move out inspection.

We understand that should you not agree with our assessment and outcome you have the right to go to small claims court. You should understand, however, we have the right to vigorously defend ourselves and we will do so.

Should you have any further questions please feel free to contact our office.

Thank you,

Bianca

Well I havent heard anything from this guy…. until today. Almost a whole month later && this is what he says.

Bianca,

I have decided that I will not seek further action regarding this issue however I need for you to issue me a new check for the original security deposit that was never cashed for the amount of 779.55.

Please confirm when the check has been issued and mailed and you can sent it to;

Tyler

Moral of the story?! DONT FUCK WITH ME! People think we will do whatever they want when they say “I’m going to take you to court”. Guess what… we go to court all the time, check our record and see how many times we have lost. the short non-google answer is ZERO!