Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in District of Columbia

Recourse for Security Deposit

I recently got out of a sub-let for an apartment where I paid a security deposit for the apartment and the furniture that was left behind. After I moved out the leaser moved back in and proceeded to make a bunch of spurious and ridiculous claims of damages and refuses to return my deposit. I've asked her to supply document for these damages which she also refuses. I've found that DC law requires written notice within 45 days, which is 2 weeks away. If she still refuses to return the deposit or provide documentation of damages is there anything I can do? Such as file a small claims suit? If so, is there anything I should be keeping in mind or doing to cover myself in case it comes to that?

Thank you.


Asked on 9/01/08, 7:17 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Recourse for Security Deposit

Yes, DC Superior Court, Small Claims and Conciliation Court.

Yes, you should be giving serious consideration as to how you're going to gather the evidence necessary to refute the original leaser's claims of damages caused by you during the term of your sub-tenancy.

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Answered on 9/02/08, 3:10 pm


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