Writing a Security Deposit Refund Letter

Meeting the Terms of a Rental Agreement

Nov 13, 2009 Peggy Hazelwood

When renters move from an apartment or house, it's necessary to write a security deposit refund letter to ensure that the security deposit is refunded properly.

Tenants or renters sign a rental agreement or lease when they agree to rent an apartment or a house. The terms of the rental agreement usually include a security deposit, which is generally equal to a month's rent. This money belongs to the tenants provided they follow the contract (the rental agreement or lease) and give proper notice in writing before vacating the property. Of course, other considerations apply, such as leaving the house or apartment in good condition.

Reviewing the Rental Agreement

Tenants should review the lease and read the exact terms for getting the security deposit refunded to them. Since the lease is a binding contract, following its guidelines is important. Following the instructions provided in the rental agreement is the first step to writing a successful security deposit refund letter. Becoming familiar with the terms of the lease is important to know what to ask for in the security deposit refund letter.

Finding the Details to Write the Security Deposit Refund Letter

One of the first things needed to write the security deposit refund letter is the property management or landlord's name and address. This information should appear along with the renter's name and address near the top of the rental agreement.

Next, the renter must find the date mandated by the lease when the refund letter must be dated and delivered to the landlord or property management company. Usually this is a 30-day notice but double checking the specific rental agreement is the safe bet.

Penalties for missing the 30-day or other deadline are generally spelled out in the lease. Reviewing it carefully ahead of time so the security deposit refund letter can be written in a timely manner is important.

Writing the Security Deposit Refund Letter

The letter begins with the date, renter's name and address, and the landlord or property management's name and address. Ensuring the date is at least 30 days before the lease expires is important. It is recommended to write the letter and date it before the 30-day notice is needed to ensure this factor is not an issue.

Writing the body of the security deposit refund letter can be short and to the point, including the facts of the matter. Providing the date the lease is up that is provided in the lease and the fact that the renter is giving 30 days notice is usually all that is absolutely necessary. Providing a new address where the security deposit can be mailed is also necessary.

Finishing the Process of Getting the Refund

Hand delivering the security deposit refund letter ensures that the landlord or property management company received the letter. Renters can ask for a receipt if necessary. Following up after the move out date is a good idea to guarantee the refund is shipping in a timely manner.

For more information on tenant rights and laws regarding security deposits, visiting RentLaw.com offers comprehensive renting information.

The copyright of the article Writing a Security Deposit Refund Letter in Personal Budgeting/Finance is owned by Peggy Hazelwood. Permission to republish Writing a Security Deposit Refund Letter in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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