California Security Request Letter
According to the California tenancy laws, you have a right to be reimbursed your security deposit after you move out of a rented property. Provided that the tenant leaves the premise having paid all the rental dues, without damage of the property and clean as it was when moving in, the reimbursement of your security deposit should be done within 21 days after moving out. The security deposit can however be used by the landlord to specifically deduct, unpaid rent, repair for damages on the property or for cleaning the rental unit if it is not as clean as when the tenant moved in.
Landlords in California have 21 days to send you a full payment of the security deposit or an itemized statement that clearly states the amount of deductions from your security deposit and the reasons for deducting them. This should also be accompanied with a refund of any amount that was not deducted from the security deposit along with receipts and proof incurred. If this is not the case, you can sue the landlord in a small claims court where you are also entitled to additional punitive damages. However, to avoid conflict, you can simply send a polite but clear reminder to the landlord asking them to pay you the security deposit. Although you do not officially have to request for the security deposit in California, stepping in with a clear and professional document that legally voices your demands is a wise approach. The HomeTitan "Request For Deposit Return Letter" is meant to remind the landlord of their duty and obligation to reimburse the security deposit as per the agreement while also sending a tactful but firm warning, should they fail to pay. Be sure to keep a clear record by sending the letter through certified mail and always keep a copy for yourself.
