Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Massachusetts

If I gave a landlord a security deposit of 925.00 and she emails me my deposit in full with a letter telling me the hardwood floors are scratched and if i don't give her 630.00 she is taking me to court can she do that? If she feels there is damage why wouldn't she take it out of my security?


Asked on 2/12/11, 2:53 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

While normally she can deduct the damage from a security deposit, she can return it and then sue you for the damages.

Did she do a walk thorugh with you before you vacated the premises?

Did she provide you with a copy of the estimate of the repairs and pictures of the damages?

She needs to show that the scartches are the result of more than normal wear and tear.

You are entitled to see what she deems as scratches beyond normal wear and tear. If you settle with her before court, make sure you get a release.

Good Luck

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Answered on 2/12/11, 11:04 am


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