A security deposit is a payment required by a landlord from a tenant to cover the expenses of any repairs of damages to the premises greater than normal "wear and tear." Everyday usage is normal wear and tear, but excess damage is a debated definition. A security deposit is not the same as rent. It is money that actually belongs to the tenant but is held by the landlord for tenant-caused damages and sometimes past-due rent. Without the agreement of the landlord, a security deposit may not legally be used as the last month's rent.
Laws vary by state, but some states place a limit on the amount of a security deposit that a landlord may charge. Some states also regulate where residential security deposits must be kept and when interest payments on the security deposits must be made to the tenant. State laws also define the time period after the tenant vacates within which the deposit must be returned to the tenant. Dear [Tenant's Name], We hope this letter finds you well. As your lease agreement has officially concluded, we wanted to provide you with a detailed description of the deductions made from your security deposit, as per the regulations governing Las Cruces, New Mexico. Firstly, we would like to commend you on maintaining the property throughout your tenancy. It is essential to emphasize that we greatly appreciate your efforts in keeping the premises in good condition. However, after conducting a thorough inspection, we have identified a few areas that required attention. 1. Cleaning Expenses: We have deducted a portion of the security deposit to cover cleaning expenses. While the property was generally well-maintained, a professional cleaning service was necessary to bring the premises back to its original state. This included deep cleaning of the carpets, scrubbing the floors, and sanitizing all surfaces. 2. Repairs and Maintenance: During the inspection, we discovered a few damages that were beyond normal wear and tear. These repairs were essential to ensure that the property remains in good condition for future tenants. The costs listed include repairing a broken window, patching and repainting walls where damage occurred, and fixing a leaking faucet in the bathroom. 3. Landscaping or Outdoor Improvements: If applicable, specify any deductions made for outdoor areas, such as lawn care or outdoor equipment repair/replacement. For instance, if the lawn was not attended to regularly, we may have deducted an amount to cover professional landscaping services. 4. Unpaid Rent or Utility Bills: If there are any outstanding balances related to rent or utilities, it is essential to clearly state these deductions in accordance with Las Cruces, New Mexico regulations. Specify any overdue amounts and provide a breakdown of charges. We have attached a detailed breakdown of the deductions made from your security deposit. Please review it carefully and do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns. Please note that if the deductions exceed the amount of your security deposit, you may be responsible for paying the remaining balance within a specified timeframe as per the lease agreement. We want to take this opportunity to express our gratitude for entrusting us with the management of your tenancy. We appreciate your cooperation throughout your stay and wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Sincerely, [Landlord's Name] [Landlord's Contact Information] Other possible variations for types of Las Cruces New Mexico Letters from Landlord to Tenant Returning Security Deposit Less Deductions may include: — Las Cruces New Mexico Letter from Landlord to Tenant Returning Partial Security Deposit — Las Cruces New Mexico Letter from Landlord to Tenant Returning Security Deposit with Itemized Deductions — Las Cruces New Mexico Letter from Landlord to Tenant Returning Security Deposit after Move-Out Inspection
Dear [Tenant's Name], We hope this letter finds you well. As your lease agreement has officially concluded, we wanted to provide you with a detailed description of the deductions made from your security deposit, as per the regulations governing Las Cruces, New Mexico. Firstly, we would like to commend you on maintaining the property throughout your tenancy. It is essential to emphasize that we greatly appreciate your efforts in keeping the premises in good condition. However, after conducting a thorough inspection, we have identified a few areas that required attention. 1. Cleaning Expenses: We have deducted a portion of the security deposit to cover cleaning expenses. While the property was generally well-maintained, a professional cleaning service was necessary to bring the premises back to its original state. This included deep cleaning of the carpets, scrubbing the floors, and sanitizing all surfaces. 2. Repairs and Maintenance: During the inspection, we discovered a few damages that were beyond normal wear and tear. These repairs were essential to ensure that the property remains in good condition for future tenants. The costs listed include repairing a broken window, patching and repainting walls where damage occurred, and fixing a leaking faucet in the bathroom. 3. Landscaping or Outdoor Improvements: If applicable, specify any deductions made for outdoor areas, such as lawn care or outdoor equipment repair/replacement. For instance, if the lawn was not attended to regularly, we may have deducted an amount to cover professional landscaping services. 4. Unpaid Rent or Utility Bills: If there are any outstanding balances related to rent or utilities, it is essential to clearly state these deductions in accordance with Las Cruces, New Mexico regulations. Specify any overdue amounts and provide a breakdown of charges. We have attached a detailed breakdown of the deductions made from your security deposit. Please review it carefully and do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns. Please note that if the deductions exceed the amount of your security deposit, you may be responsible for paying the remaining balance within a specified timeframe as per the lease agreement. We want to take this opportunity to express our gratitude for entrusting us with the management of your tenancy. We appreciate your cooperation throughout your stay and wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Sincerely, [Landlord's Name] [Landlord's Contact Information] Other possible variations for types of Las Cruces New Mexico Letters from Landlord to Tenant Returning Security Deposit Less Deductions may include: — Las Cruces New Mexico Letter from Landlord to Tenant Returning Partial Security Deposit — Las Cruces New Mexico Letter from Landlord to Tenant Returning Security Deposit with Itemized Deductions — Las Cruces New Mexico Letter from Landlord to Tenant Returning Security Deposit after Move-Out Inspection