Deposit Return Issue

[Carlos C.]

Hi Guys! So, I have a question and hopefully you fellow landlords can guide me in the right direction. I have a Unit in a duplex in Sunrise Florida that the tenants just moved out. I assessed the damage and texted the ex-Tenant that from his $1600 deposit I was only returning $200. The total expense to fix the property was $1850 but I still wanted to give him something. He texted back saying “ok” and told me where to send the check. 5 days later he texted me arguing that the property was already in bad conditions and other false claims. What should I do? I told him I was going to send him a copy of the invoice from the person that did the work and the pictures before he moved in and pictures of how he left he property. Any advice? Thanks!

[Kyle J.]

First, if it were me and his deposit was $1600 and the damages were really $1850, I wouldn't have sent him back $200.  I would have sent him an invoice for $250. 

Second, like @Sai T. said, on issues like this, don't communicate by text.  It makes it too easy for the tenant to argue.  Just mail him the legally required return of the deposit and the accounting statement for what you deducted, along with any necessary invoices/receipts, and be done with it.  Don't respond to any subsequent texts or engage in any back and forth arguments.  (Keep in mind for next time that he probably wouldn't have even contacted you if you would have sent him a bill for $250.)