Tenant threatening to sue for deposit despite owing rent

[Janier Larcheveaux]

I have a tenant whom I found through a program which pays their security deposit and the first two months of rent.  She had at times complained about squirrels and mice and I sent the exterminator out anytime she contacted me.  She was short on rent a few months and requested rental assistance for which I had to write a letter though I have yet to see a check.  She moved a few months ago without giving proper notice and without making the last month's payment on top of what was already owed.  She's now threatening to sue me for for not returning her deposit and for damage to furniture which she claims she incurred as a result of the squirrels and mice.  I also have a number of text messages in which she stated that everything was "great" with the apartment.  Does she have a leg to stand on?  I'm concerned since this is in Baltimore City and I've seen and had tenants get away with the most egregious of claims.

[Shawn Davis]

hi Janier - Ned is right.  It sure sounds like you had several legitimate reasons to withhold portions of the security deposit but it will ultimately come down to weather you properly documented the renter's deficiencies and if you did a proper and timely security deposit accounting per The laws in Massachusettes.  Imagine that the judge won't let you talk at all - can you tell the story through proper documentation?  If you did, I wouldn't be too concerned with her threats, but if not...