Security Deposit Question

[Rachel Hutcherson]

I inherited a tenant whose lease recently ended. She left the place quite a mess, but clean for “her standards” as I had gotten several complaints from the City/neighbors regarding her lack of cleanliness. 

I sent an intent to impose a claim, for $400 of her $500 security deposit, detailing why. I agreed to return $100 to her, as my purchasing the property ultimately resulted in her and her children needing relocation.  

She had 15 days to respond, and today I received a letter from an attorney in her behalf. 

She received my intent to impose a claim on the 8th, at 3:32pm per my certified mail tracking. 

I received an email from an attorney today, at 5:16pm. Here’s the thing...Technically, 15 twenty-four-hour periods have already passed. 

Am I being too technical or does that constitute no more need for continued discussion on their dispute? They also sent a receipt stating certified mail would be coming to my home on the 25th, which is definitely past the 15 day requirement for my jurisdiction. But they said to count the email (which I have no idea how she got my personal email address) should be considered her written notice that she’s disputing it. 

Should I not accept the certified mail? Should I just not respond?