[VMS]

:rolleyes: i live in california and had a landlord from hell. Once i told her my intentions of not re-leasing the house with a 30 day notice, she was angry. She tried to come in my house without notice, she went to my house with a lock smith and tried to have me locked out (the police told her she couldn't do that-i was at work and my husband just happened to see her).

I paid my rent on time for the most part but i was never later then the allotted time on my lease. I had the house professionally cleaned when i left, took, pictures, and spoke with the agent who actually rented for her, i was told she needed to give me an itemized statement within 21 days of my departure. I never received anything, i never heard from her again.

Almost four months later, :confused: i received a letter from a credit agency from her stating i owe her $4800.00. My deposit was $3000.00 and i don't know why or what this about. I can only say she is angry because the house is still empty and she is having to pay the mortgage. Someone please help, what do i do and what are my rights?

[Lowtax4eva]

Was there any stipulation on the lease about how much notice you had to give, for instance maybe you had to give 90 days notice if not re-leasing or whatever and she is charging you those extra 2 months.

Just a thought, was there anything about how much notice to give?

[ScottGem]

Ok, You never pursued the fact that she didn't return your deposit? Did you leave a forwarding address with her or the Post office?

Most leases allow the landlord access to the premises under certain conditions. But yes it would have been illegal for her to lock you out.

I would send a letter to the collection company stating that you left the apartment in pristine condition (hope you still have the receipt from the cleaning company). That, by law, she had 21 days to present you with a statement of damages which she never did. By not doing so, she forfeited any right to collect on any alleged damages. Therefore, you do not owe her anything, in fact she owes you your $3000.

You might also tell them, that if they bother you anymore, you will file suit for the return of the deposit. Check CA law, most state laws allow the tenant to collect double if the deposit or a itemized list of expenses the deposit was used for, is not presented within the time frame.

[VMS]

Scottgem

Thank You, She Knew How To Get A Hold Of Me. My Lease Stated I Needed To Give Her A 30 Days Notice Before I Moved Out, And Yes I Have Proof I Professionally Cleaned It. My Dispute Letter Will Be On Its Way, Registered Mail Of Course...

Thank You I Feel Better.

Vms

[ScottGem]

Yep you are in the clear In my opinion. If she does pursue this any furhter then file suit in small claims court for your deposit back.