Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Virginia

Can landlord deduct from my security deposit other than damages and cleaning?

Hello,

After I moved out my landlord decided to charge me or actually take my security deposit because my girlfriend stay over alot. He sent me a written bill showing all of the charges:

1. $300 - for my girlfriend staying there (she has her own place. she just came over a lot. Also, how does he know how much to charge?

2. $25 - Broken refrigerator rail guard.

3. $50 - Broken light.

4. $80 - burnt heater in the restroom.

5. $120 - cost of replacement of the above items

First of all #2, 3, and 4 were working when I left. But the bad thing is I didn't take pictures. Also, how can he charge for #5 it doesnt make since to me.

Any there anything I can do about this bad landlord or am I SOL? Thanks for your time and any help is appreciated.

-angry tenent


Asked on 6/01/05, 6:30 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Sudeep Bose Bose Law Firm, PLLC - Former Police, Prosecutors & Investigators

Re: Can landlord deduct from my security deposit other than damages and cleaning

No. In fact, depending on whether the Virginia Landlord Tenant Act applies in your case, there may be punitive damages claims lodged against the landlord for misapporpriation of funds held in escrow.

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Answered on 6/01/05, 6:59 pm
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Can landlord deduct from my security deposit other than damages and cleaning

Considering the facts that you have no pictures, you've already vacated the premises, and forfeited your security deposit, I'd say yea, you're now probably SOL(whatever that means).

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Answered on 6/01/05, 7:41 pm


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