Can previous landlord send “charges” to collection without noticing me about charges in the first place?
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Can previous landlord send “charges” to collection without noticing me about charges in the first place?
I live in Florida. I moved out of my apartment in March of 2009, I expected a letter of my deposit on whether it will be returned or not. I never received any sort of letter. I called the complex after a month and asked about the letter. The manager told me over the phone about charges I owe from carpet damage. I never received a certified letter about this. Today, I received a letter from a collection agency about the charges I owe. Is this legal to do without first noticing me about the charges first in a letter?
Asked on June 20, 2009 under Real Estate Law, Florida
Answers:
J.M.A., Member in Good Standing of the Connecticut Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
Generally, the landlord is required by law to send you a letter within 30 days after you leave itemizing what damages are being taken out of the security deposit. If this was not done, i suggest filing a small claims action against the landlord as you can get double damages and atty fees if you hire a lawyer.
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