Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Texas

I rented a property from a reality company that was the middle man between myself and the owner of the property. After I moved out I received a bill for my entire $1050 deposit plus an extra $1300. After contacting the company to ask why I have an extra $1300 on top of my deposit, the company try's to just blow me off. They tell me that is what the owner says. The owner lives out of state. It has taken over a month and a half just to hear back from the owner. The company refuses to explain why some of the charges are what they are. They have an "F" with the BBB, and other people have had problems with their deposits also. When I moved in the walls were not painted and the woodwork was not painted. They are trying to charge me $990 to paint the walls, and $660 to paint the woodwork (baseboards). I have asked them what was wrong with the baseboards because I did not do anything to them what so ever. They refuse to tell me anything at all. If I don't pay them the $1300 can they hurt my credit? I live in cypress. Tx


Asked on 8/06/10, 10:07 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
TC Langford Langford Law Office

You should file suit against both the realty company and the landlord. Texas law provides for a strict and specific handling of the return or forfeit of deposit monies. From your description, they have not complied with the law, and you may be entitled to the return of your deposit, damages and attorney fees. The Texas Attorney General provides a good primer on the requirements at their website, under consumers - landlord/tenant. Consult with an attorney, as you may be entitled to reimbursement of attorney fees.

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Answered on 8/11/10, 11:40 am


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