Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

You are worrying too much. They do not have any of your money. They would have to sue you and for $260 they probably will not do so. They do not have a great case. If they really felt the carpet had to be removed why did they charge you for cleaning it? Why did they wait for three months before telling you the carpet had to be removed. Why did they not tell you during the move out inspection/walk through.

Write them one last letter:

I am spoken wilth an attorney friend. This will be my last correspondence with you as to to the claim for carpet damage. As you know [list all the facts, inspection, nothing said 3 months, returned almost all deposit, pictures show no damage, difficult to definite what is excessive wear and tear for carpeting off]. You have no real evidence to support your position, while I do have evidence. A trier of fact would feel the circumstances do not support your claim. You are not going to go to court over $260.

You refuse to respond to my calls, letters, etc. Your behavior has become harassment. If you should sue me, I will cross-complain for your intentional infliction of emotion distress.

By the way,did they return your money within 21 days of your vacating/ If not they violated the law and would have to return all o fthe security deposit.