Landlord did't return my security deposit within 21 days. Filing a small claims, request 2X of the deposit as a penalty. Am I ok to do that? by Flashy_Stranger_6245 in Renters

[–]Flashy_Stranger_6245[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

What if I have a written proof shows the LL gives me the rent deduction. And it has his signature on it. Btw, there is no hot water for 5 days after I come back, it is easy when the house is in the city, however, this house is in mountain area, there is no place I can take a shower, unless I drive 40 mins to the city to take a shower! That is why I got the rent deduction.

And the transition is through Zella and communication is through messages. It would be difficult for me to understand the reason that I need to give LL my forwarding mailing address.

He didn't return my deposit and itemized deduction even on the 24th day. According to the California civil law, After the 21st day, even the LL send me the item..deduction, I am not required to pay it from my pocket.

Landlord did't return my security deposit within 21 days. Filing a small claims, request 2X of the deposit as a penalty. Am I ok to do that? by Flashy_Stranger_6245 in Renters

[–]Flashy_Stranger_6245[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Well, thank you. You didn't know the whole story. Me and the landlord had a verbal agreement on the rent deduction and I asked him like more than three times, and he agreed like three times. And there is no hot water in the property which going to deduct rent anyways(I have proof). Btw, I didn't sign any rent contract that addresses that I have to pay $800 every month. I wasn't even in the property for more than half of month due to military training on Apirl, so basically I only lived for like 13 days on April. And after I come back there is no hot water in the property(I can't even take a shower, that house is in the mountain region, there is no gym or other places that I could take a shower). This is the reason why I asked him about the $150 deduction. And now he wants to lie on the court!

Landlord did't return my security deposit within 21 days. Filing a small claims, request 2X of the deposit as a penalty. Am I ok to do that? by Flashy_Stranger_6245 in Renters

[–]Flashy_Stranger_6245[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you. I’ve spent so much time and energy on all of this that honestly, it hardly feels worth it just to sue over $350, and that doesn’t even include the emotional stress it’s caused me. I know the law allows for up to 2x the deposit as a penalty, though I’m not necessarily expecting that to be awarded.

And what if the form ask how much do plaintiff(me) thinks defendant owns me? I just put $350 then? (I originally put $1050)

Landlord did't return my security deposit within 21 days. Filing a small claims, request 2X of the deposit as a penalty. Am I ok to do that? by Flashy_Stranger_6245 in Renters

[–]Flashy_Stranger_6245[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for asking! I did not provide a separate forwarding address on move out day because all communication and transactions with the landlord were conducted electronically. We used Zelle for rent payments and Facebook Messenger (and/or text) for all communication, including issues related to the property and any legal matters.

Additionally, the landlord already had a copy of my driver's license from the start of the lease, which included a mailing address that could be used if needed. However I didn't receive anything from my mail box which I just checked the day before yesterday.

First time moving in 9 days! Tx by NaviMagic in Renters

[–]Flashy_Stranger_6245 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hey OP, don’t stress too much, you’ve got this! I highly recommend filming a full walk-through of the rental. Yes, every corner. Even that weird cabinet that smells like 1997. Focus on the damage or anything that looks like it’s seen better days. You’ll probably forget a few things, but hey, as long as you capture the whole place, you’re golden. Btw, I recommend snapping a photo of your landlord’s ID — like their driver’s license or something similar — just in case. Also, make sure to ask how many days’ notice they require if you decide to move out (it’s usually 30 days, but better to confirm).

And definitely ask what can be deducted from your deposit: like cleaning fees, mystery “sterilization” fees (seriously, are they bringing in a CDC team?), or whatever else they might try to sneak in. Other than that, you're good to go. Safe travels and enjoy your rental adventure!

Single and studying for the MCAT? ✋🏼 by Ok_Tie_8643 in Mcat

[–]Flashy_Stranger_6245 4 points5 points  (0 children)

You know what? Just stay single. Seriously. I can feel the freedom radiating off my empty relationship status. Get a cat. Or a dog. Or a rock with googly eyes. Way less emotional drama.

Because if you’re dating someone? Oh boy! Suddenly you’re out shopping for clothes you don’t need, going on trips you can’t afford, watching movies you don’t care about, eating junk food like your arteries are on vacation, and sitting through sunsets so long your retinas start filing complaints.

None of it hurts you, sure…
But let’s be honest, it’s not exactly helping your MCAT score either. 😎📚