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], I hope this letter finds you well. As your former landlord in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, I am writing to inform you about the return of your security deposit. First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude for your tenancy and the care you showed towards the property during your stay. It is important for me to inform you that, as per the terms of our lease agreement, I have deducted certain amounts from your security deposit. Here is a detailed breakdown of the deductions: 1. Cleaning and Repairs: To ensure that the property is in optimal condition for the next tenant, certain cleaning and repairs were necessary. This includes cleaning the carpet, repairing minor damages, and repainting the walls where necessary. The total cost for these services amounted to [dollar amount deducted]. 2. Outstanding Rent or Utilities: In some cases, tenants may have outstanding rent or utilities that are deducted from the security deposit. However, I am pleased to inform you that there were no outstanding balances in your case. 3. Unpaid Fees or Fines: During your tenancy, it was evident that you adhered to the agreed-upon rules and regulations of the property. Hence, there are no unpaid fees or fines to be deducted from your security deposit. 4. Other Deductions: [Specify any other relevant deductions, such as unpaid pet fees, damages caused by unauthorized alterations, etc., if applicable.] Based on the aforementioned deductions, the amount remaining from your security deposit is [total amount]. I will be issuing a check for this amount within [specified time frame as per local laws]. Kindly ensure that you have provided us with the correct mailing address to avoid any delays in receiving the refund. Please note that if you have any questions or concerns regarding the deductions made, I am more than willing to discuss them with you. I would be happy to provide any necessary receipts or invoices related to the deductions. It has been a pleasure having you as a tenant, and I sincerely hope that your future endeavors in Oklahoma City are successful. If you require a recommendation for future housing, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Thank you once again for your cooperation and understanding throughout your tenancy. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Best regards, [Your Name] [Landlord or Property Management Company] [Contact Information]
Dear [Tenant's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. As your former landlord in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, I am writing to inform you about the return of your security deposit. First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude for your tenancy and the care you showed towards the property during your stay. It is important for me to inform you that, as per the terms of our lease agreement, I have deducted certain amounts from your security deposit. Here is a detailed breakdown of the deductions: 1. Cleaning and Repairs: To ensure that the property is in optimal condition for the next tenant, certain cleaning and repairs were necessary. This includes cleaning the carpet, repairing minor damages, and repainting the walls where necessary. The total cost for these services amounted to [dollar amount deducted]. 2. Outstanding Rent or Utilities: In some cases, tenants may have outstanding rent or utilities that are deducted from the security deposit. However, I am pleased to inform you that there were no outstanding balances in your case. 3. Unpaid Fees or Fines: During your tenancy, it was evident that you adhered to the agreed-upon rules and regulations of the property. Hence, there are no unpaid fees or fines to be deducted from your security deposit. 4. Other Deductions: [Specify any other relevant deductions, such as unpaid pet fees, damages caused by unauthorized alterations, etc., if applicable.] Based on the aforementioned deductions, the amount remaining from your security deposit is [total amount]. I will be issuing a check for this amount within [specified time frame as per local laws]. Kindly ensure that you have provided us with the correct mailing address to avoid any delays in receiving the refund. Please note that if you have any questions or concerns regarding the deductions made, I am more than willing to discuss them with you. I would be happy to provide any necessary receipts or invoices related to the deductions. It has been a pleasure having you as a tenant, and I sincerely hope that your future endeavors in Oklahoma City are successful. If you require a recommendation for future housing, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Thank you once again for your cooperation and understanding throughout your tenancy. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Best regards, [Your Name] [Landlord or Property Management Company] [Contact Information]