Tenants moving out, want refund of sec deposit on moving out

[Jane S.]

Tenants moving out feb 28 wrote me they expect to get the deposit back on Feb 28 at which time they will “deliver the keys”. 

They are immigrants and the only good English speaker in the family moved away. And i dont speak Swahili.

They repeatedly ignored the terms of the lease which clearly state what they are required to do/provide in order to leave property in same condition as when they moved in. It was a fresh rehab & they were the first tenants. I never asked for late fees when their rent was late, it was never more than 4 days, my bank switched their rules for deposits.

It is a large family and the house is stuffed with belongings. No way can I tell what needs to be done.

I plan to write to them reminding them to read the lease. They will need to have someone translate it. They said they understood the terms when they signed it last year.

Appreciate your comments on this and what you would do.

Jane

[Jonathan R McLaughlin]

first, don't assume they are being hostile, tone is the last thing people master in new languages so what to you might read rude or at least brusque may not be to them. Also, assume until proven otherwise they are trying to do the right thing--giving you notice, letting you know they will give you the keys etc. Lease or no, its doubtful they remember the terms. And if they are new, they have no idea how things are supposed to work. The security deposit is a lot of money to them, so they will be scared as well.

Make an effort, write and email and use google translate. Let them know the standard procedure and that you are planning to follow it. Describe damage vs. normal wear and tear. Get their upcoming address. Do you have a move in checklist? If so make an appt with them or just zoom.