Horrible landlord experience and no move in inspection

[Josh Sandefer]

I recently moved out of a rental property, and I just received a notice from my landlord about some ridiculous charges against my security deposit, which strangely add up to almost the exact amount of my deposit (Hmm...).  This guy was one of the worst landlords I have ever experienced and I want the BP opinion on what, if anything, I should do.

First, there was never any move in inspection of the premises, despite the fact that he told us there would be, and my reminding him that it did not happen.  This is terrible because the condition of the house upon move in was atrocious, but my wife and I had nowhere else to go.

Second, after texting him pictures of mold outbreaks in the house he simply responded with a question mark and asked me to take care of it.

I was separating from the military when I moved out, and I think he is taking advantage of the fact that I will be out of state.  He is located in Virginia and I am now located in Texas.  

If anyone has any input I would love to hear it.

[Davido Davido]

@Josh Sandefer, Josh since you believe this landlord has wronged you, as would I, do your self and the rest of Virginia a favor and at least sue the landlord for your deposit in small claims court.  It is fairly simple.  Typically a small claim is just a few pages of forms and your written statement. of filing fee of less than $40, and proof you notified the other party. You can ask the court to either decide the matter based on the written record that you submit, or to allow you to appear telephonically -meaning you do not need to go to Virginia for the suit. Confirm you do not need to make a personal appearance with the small claims court before filing, but most don't require it.  Deciding on the question on the written record makes it harder to win, because the judge usually has pivotal questions.  On the other hand it is likely that a bad actor land lord would neither appear nor respond to your suit. In that case the only record before the judge would be info you gave him.

Really brother doing a small claim is not difficult.  Further, even if by some deceit the landlord prevailed, you'll be glad you pursued him because you'll know that you did what the situation called for, the courts will be aware that the landlord has had this problem before, and you will be all the more confident next time you encounter a scoundrel.  Best Wishes.