This form covers the subject matter described in the form's title for your State. This is a letter from the Tenant to Landlord containing notice of wrongful deductions from the security deposit anda demand for return. This form complies with state statutory law.
Subject: Santa Maria, California Tenant's Notice of Wrongful Deductions from Security Deposit and Demand for Return Dear [Landlord's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to address a matter of concern regarding my security deposit for the rental property located at [Address]. As per our lease agreement, which expired on [Date], I am deeply disappointed to discover that deductions have been made from my security deposit that appear to be unjustified and in violation of California law. After conducting meticulous research on the tenant-landlord laws in Santa Maria, California, I have obtained a thorough understanding of my rights and the responsibilities resting upon both parties involved. I have identified specific instances where I believe wrongful deductions have been made from my security deposit. It is my sincere hope that we can resolve this matter amicably and promptly. 1. Improper or Unsubstantiated Deductions: Upon vacating the rental property on [Date], I made sure to leave it in a clean and well-maintained condition, consistent with my obligations under the lease agreement. However, I allege that you deducted [amount] from my security deposit, claiming it was for cleaning costs. As per California Civil Code Section 1950.5, a landlord cannot withhold cleaning fees if the tenant left the property in substantially the same condition as it was rented, excluding normal wear and tear. I demand an immediate return of this amount. 2. Failure to Justify Deductions: Further, I noticed that [amount] has been subtracted from my security deposit to cover what you claim were damages to the property. However, it is imperative to note that these deductions were not accompanied by any supporting evidence or documentation. As required by law, a detailed itemization of these damages, along with corresponding invoices or receipts, must be provided within 21 days of the lease termination. Consequently, I insist that you promptly rectify this issue by refunding the total wrongfully deducted sum. Please be aware of the legal obligations outlined in the Santa Maria, California tenant-landlord laws. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in legal consequences for the landlord, including the return of the entire security deposit as well as potential penalties. I believe in open communication and resolving disputes without resorting to legal action. However, if we are unable to reach a mutually agreeable resolution within 14 days of receiving this letter, I may be forced to escalate this matter and seek legal redress to protect my rights as a tenant. To ensure a smooth and equitable resolution, I kindly request that you respond in writing within 5 business days from the receipt of this letter, confirming your willingness to address and rectify the issues raised. Additionally, please provide me with the necessary information to arrange a final inspection of the premises if deemed necessary. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I trust that you will honor your legal obligations and act responsibly. Yours sincerely, [Tenant's Name] [Tenant's Address] [Tenant's City, State, ZIP Code] [Tenant's Phone Number] [Tenant's Email Address]Subject: Santa Maria, California Tenant's Notice of Wrongful Deductions from Security Deposit and Demand for Return Dear [Landlord's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to address a matter of concern regarding my security deposit for the rental property located at [Address]. As per our lease agreement, which expired on [Date], I am deeply disappointed to discover that deductions have been made from my security deposit that appear to be unjustified and in violation of California law. After conducting meticulous research on the tenant-landlord laws in Santa Maria, California, I have obtained a thorough understanding of my rights and the responsibilities resting upon both parties involved. I have identified specific instances where I believe wrongful deductions have been made from my security deposit. It is my sincere hope that we can resolve this matter amicably and promptly. 1. Improper or Unsubstantiated Deductions: Upon vacating the rental property on [Date], I made sure to leave it in a clean and well-maintained condition, consistent with my obligations under the lease agreement. However, I allege that you deducted [amount] from my security deposit, claiming it was for cleaning costs. As per California Civil Code Section 1950.5, a landlord cannot withhold cleaning fees if the tenant left the property in substantially the same condition as it was rented, excluding normal wear and tear. I demand an immediate return of this amount. 2. Failure to Justify Deductions: Further, I noticed that [amount] has been subtracted from my security deposit to cover what you claim were damages to the property. However, it is imperative to note that these deductions were not accompanied by any supporting evidence or documentation. As required by law, a detailed itemization of these damages, along with corresponding invoices or receipts, must be provided within 21 days of the lease termination. Consequently, I insist that you promptly rectify this issue by refunding the total wrongfully deducted sum. Please be aware of the legal obligations outlined in the Santa Maria, California tenant-landlord laws. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in legal consequences for the landlord, including the return of the entire security deposit as well as potential penalties. I believe in open communication and resolving disputes without resorting to legal action. However, if we are unable to reach a mutually agreeable resolution within 14 days of receiving this letter, I may be forced to escalate this matter and seek legal redress to protect my rights as a tenant. To ensure a smooth and equitable resolution, I kindly request that you respond in writing within 5 business days from the receipt of this letter, confirming your willingness to address and rectify the issues raised. Additionally, please provide me with the necessary information to arrange a final inspection of the premises if deemed necessary. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I trust that you will honor your legal obligations and act responsibly. Yours sincerely, [Tenant's Name] [Tenant's Address] [Tenant's City, State, ZIP Code] [Tenant's Phone Number] [Tenant's Email Address]
