questions & answers

Question: I lived in apartment for 2yrs. Carpet was new. Contract was up 11/30/18 and completed the walk-through on 11/28. At the walk-through we were told that everything was fine except a stain on the countertop which we were told that we would probably have to pay for. Two weeks later I get a letter that I have to pay to replace the carpet because it's worn more than the 36 month life limit. I have pictures of the carpet and it is not worn nor dirty.

Answer: A former tenant who is owed a refundable security deposit must write to the landlord to request its return. Under A.R.S. 33-1321(D), after receipt of the tenant’s request the landlord has 14 business days to provide the tenant with an itemized list of deductions (if any) along with the amount due and payable to the tenant. If the landlord claims deductions for repairs that the tenant does not believe to be legitimate, then, unfortunately, the tenant’s only options are to negotiate or take the landlord to court.