Home & land
My landlord is not returning my security deposit
Deposit disputes turn on what was paid, the condition of the home, and any dues. We will ask about each.
Answer a few questions and get your list →What the law says
Rent laws differ by state. Some states follow the Model Tenancy Act approach, including caps on deposits.
General information, not legal advice.
Papers that usually help
- Rent agreement (all pages)
Usually states the deposit, notice period and deductions. - Any messages or receipts that mention the deposit amount
Without an agreement, messages and receipts prove what was agreed. - Proof of paying the deposit
The central fact of the claim. - Cash receipt, acknowledgement message, or names of witnesses
Cash is harder to prove; any written acknowledgement helps. - Rent payment records for the whole stay
Answers claims of unpaid rent. - Proof of handing back the keys and the date
Fixes when the deposit became due. - Your notice to vacate
Short notice is a common reason for deductions. - Photos or videos of the home's condition
The main evidence on damage claims. - Final electricity, water and maintenance bills and meter readings
Answers claims of unpaid bills. - The messages in which the deposit was refused or deductions claimed
Shows the reason and its date. - Your written demand and any reply
Fixes the date of demand. - Landlord's and tenant's full names and addresses
Needed for any notice or complaint. - Repair invoices and damage photos (landlord)
Supports deductions.
Questions Saboot will ask you
- Which side are you on?
- Is there a written rent agreement?
- How was the deposit paid?
- Has the house been vacated and the keys handed back?
- When did you move out and hand back the keys?
- What reason has been given for keeping the deposit?
- Are there photos or videos of the home's condition?
- Are any rent or bills unpaid?
Sources
Common situations
- Landlord not returning my deposit after I moved out
- Landlord deducting painting and cleaning from deposit
- Paid deposit in cash and no agreement
- PG or hostel won’t return my deposit
- Tenant left damage worth more than the deposit
- Shop or office lease deposit not returned
- Gave notice to vacate — landlord says deposit only after new tenant
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