Actually got a refund from a landlord without going to court - here's how it worked for me

I was super skeptical when my buddy told me to send a certified letter demanding my full security deposit back after moving out of my old apartment in Austin. The landlord had kept $400 for 'cleaning' that I knew was bogus since I took photos of the place spotless. I found a template online from the Texas Tenants' Union and filled it out, sent it certified mail with a return receipt. Two weeks later the dude actually sent me a check for the full amount plus a letter apologizing for the delay. I honestly thought he'd just laugh at the letter or ignore it completely because he's been a jerk the whole time I lived there. Has anyone else had luck with threatening legal action through a simple letter when you have solid proof?

2 comments

2 Comments

wyattmitchell16d ago

Did you include specific dates in your demand letter or just the amount you wanted back?

schmidt.willow16d ago

Dang, that's a tough spot to be in, hope it works out for you.