Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

overcharging on security deposit

After leasing a house for a year the management company is keeping most of my security deposit and overcharging me for everything. I am going to challenge them on most of the charges. For instance, They charged me $30 to replace an air conditioner filter (cardboard) and a range top filter, plus another $30 to install them! In addition they are charging me a ''handling fee'' of 10% of the total amount they are taking from the refund which amounts to $80. Is it legal for them to charge a 10% handling fee? I don't see that written anywhere in the laws for tenants/landlords.


Asked on 6/22/08, 2:47 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: overcharging on security deposit

They should not be charging you for normal wear and tear. You can dispute it, and eventually go to small claims court, but they know that it's probably not worth it for that small an amount.

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Answered on 6/22/08, 4:59 pm
Robert L. Bennett Law offices of Robert L. Bennett

Re: overcharging on security deposit

Keep written track, and file in small claims court.

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Answered on 6/22/08, 7:28 pm


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