Landlord rights regarding security deposit return

[wskies03]

I rented my condo out to a couple that seamed like they would keep up on their rent but not the case the very first month they were late on their rent finally after 15 days I received a check for a portion of the rent from their church and 15 days after that a check from community action which made for a difficult situation which this payments went to pay the mortgage for the condo..so the next month the same thing so I informed them if this is going to be what is happening every month that they need to move out.they agread and moved out in about 20days. now they want their deposit back I feel they shouldn't get all of it due to all the late fees and inconvience..what should I do?

[wskies03]

I rented my condo out to a couple that seamed like they would keep up on their rent but not the case the very first month they were late on their rent finally after 15 days I received a check for a portion of the rent from their church and 15 days after that a check from community action which made for a difficult situation which this payments went to pay the mortgage for the condo..so the next month the same thing so I informed them if this is going to be what is happening every month that they need to move out.they agread and moved out in about 20days. now they want their deposit back I feel they shouldn't get all of it due to all the late fees and inconvience..what should I do?

[Ultrarunner]

Originally Posted by wskies03

I rented my condo out to a couple that seamed like they would keep up on their rent but not the case the very first month they were late on their rent finally after 15 days I received a check for a portion of the rent from their church and 15 days after that a check from community action which made for a difficult situation which this payments went to pay the mortgage for the condo..so the next month the same thing so I informed them if this is going to be what is happening every month that they need to move out.they agread and moved out in about 20days. now they want their deposit back I feel they shouldn't get all of it due to all the late fees and inconvience..what should I do?

Deposits are strictly regulated in California... you must be able to account for any amount that is not returned within 21 days as provided by statute.

I do not believe deducting for inconvenience will stand if challenged.

Here is a link to the California Department of Consumer Affairs regarding residential security deposits:



California Tenants - California Department of Consumer Affairs

[jw2]

Originally Posted by wskies03

I rented my condo out to a couple that seamed like they would keep up on their rent but not the case the very first month they were late on their rent finally after 15 days I received a check for a portion of the rent from their church and 15 days after that a check from community action which made for a difficult situation which this payments went to pay the mortgage for the condo..so the next month the same thing so I informed them if this is going to be what is happening every month that they need to move out.they agread and moved out in about 20days. now they want their deposit back I feel they shouldn't get all of it due to all the late fees and inconvience..what should I do?

Did they even have a lease?

I strongly recommend you just return their deposit providing they left the place in good condition. They left at your request and obviously are having some money issue.

Get the place ready for the next tenant and just move on