Security deposit - no forwarding address

[Colleen F.]

Ok so I called, emailed ,  and texted and got no address to send security deposit to.  I then sent the security deposit to the rental address and the  tenant has  no forwarding address order so it was delivered to the apartment and I picked it up from the mailbox.   So just stick the unopened deposit check I  mailed in a draw and wait?   They are students so they will think of it some time but I haven't had one do this before.     I also have another who acknowledged but didn't cash the check. Suggestions?   I think there may be something in the air here....... 

[Marcia Maynard]

Proactively, when tenants move-in, we give them a move-out packet that explains how to give notice and what is required when they intend to move and our process.  It includes a "Notice to Vacate" form for the tenant to fill out so it is easy for them to give written notice to us, specific to our landlord tenant laws.  On this notice is a place for them to fill in a forwarding address.  When we do the move-out inspection with the tenant we have them sign a "Return of Possession Form" which also has a place to fill in a forwarding address.

Retroactively, in your situation, I would do as you did... in addition, I would call the emergency contact person for this tenant and ask them to ask the tenant to contact you asap about the refund on their deposit.   If you didn't get an emergency contact name/phone/address from the tenant upon move-in, or if the emergency contact person's information is outdated, try to find someone else who knows the tenant.... perhaps a reference person from their original application to rent.