I have a similar question-in the state of SC I had a guy wanting to sublease my apartment with a verbal agreement for 700 a month for 2.5 months. He left after three weeks of living in my room with no check. I have 2 roommates that are willing to say we had an agreement, and I have personal items of his that proved that he had lived in my apartment. He has gotten in trouble with the law before but comes from a wealthy family and has a good lawyer. Do I stand a chance in small claims?
Small claims will not cost you so you can try. A judge will not think much of your landlord skill if you went with a verbal , no security and no up front payment. I'd probably walk away