I believe that the security/damage deposit has to be returned within 15 days of tenants departure (but check on the state's website), less any money for damage or excessive wear & tear, along with an explanation. It would be a good idea to send them a copy of the bill that you had to pay to correct the damage or wear & tear, so that they know it is legit. I once had a 6 month tenant that our property manager told us was a "lovely older lady" with no children or pets. When she moved out she left our place a real mess. Didn't clean at all, smoked and left burn holes in bedspreads, sheets, and carpeting even though it clearly stated it was a non-smoking home and had a sign in the living room "no smoking", broke 3 lamps, child's crayon drawings on the walls & furniture, dog's business on the carpeting and sofa, which we had to replace (even though the contract said no pets) and she even helped herself to several of our items. Our lovely property manager, at the time, gave them back the deposit of $1500 without checking the house. When we arrived and found the damage, we called the property manager, but she said she wasn't responsible...end of property manager...we now do it ourselves, long distance, and it works much better.
P.S. I might add that it cost well over $1500 (which I didn't get) to correct the damage. End of my rant!
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