Can a landlord fine meafter returning my security deposit?

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Can a landlord fine meafter returning my security deposit?

My lease expired 9 months ago and my landlord did not renew it. I didn’t question it but she decided to sell 2 months ago. There was a foot of snow on the ground and I told her we wouldn’t be able to clean up the back yard. She returned my security deposit at that time when we moved out and now she wants to fine me to clean up the back yard because she wants to sell.

Asked on March 12, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Indiana

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

It is entirely possible for your former landlord to try and fine you for not cleaning up the backyard after move out and after returning your security deposit.

However, since you have the return of the security deposit and have moved out, the only way your former landlord will be able to get the money wanted from you is either you give it to her or you force her to take you to small claims court and you let the judge make the decision on the dispute.


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