Return of Your Security Deposit

Q: After I've vacated my apartment, how long until my security deposit will be returned to me?

A: Provided that you have given your landlord written notice in advance, which is generally sixty-one (61) days, and counting from the date that you vacated your apartment, your landlord has twenty-one (21) days to return your security deposit, with any interest, to you. If for any reason the landlord wishes to withhold any portion of your deposit, a letter stating what portion is being withheld and why must be mailed to you within twenty-one (21) days as well. To facilitate this process, it is advisable that you include an address where you will be receiving mail after you've moved in the letter that you provide to the landlord indicating your desire to vacate the apartment. If after twenty-one (21) days the landlord has not provided you with either a check for the full amount of your deposit plus interest or a letter giving reasons why all or part of it is being withheld, you may file an action in conciliation court whereby your landlord will be required, if found to have not complied with these requirements, to pay two times your deposit, plus two times the interest that you had earned on your deposit, and up to $200 in punitive damages to you.