He begged and gave excuses why he needed the money and I felt sympathetic.What I Learned: Triple check their work and always withhold some payment until everything is good.Oh, and did I mention he was didn’t have a plumbing license?

I went to google to "withholding 7% form" and it is Maryland Return of Income Tax Withholding for Nonresident Sale of Real Property (MW506NRS)Form used to determine the amount of income tax withholding due on the sale of property located in Maryland and owned by nonresidents, and provide for tax collection at the time of the sale or transfer.This is the "application form" MW506RApplication for Tentative Refund of Withholding on Sales of Real Property by NonresidentsForm used to apply for a refund of the amount of tax withheld on the sale or transfer of Maryland real property interests by a nonresident individual or nonresident entity which is in excess of the transferor/seller's tax liability for the transaction.

California's current income tax withholding law enacted in 2002 and effective January 1, 2003 under Governor Davis requires a mandatory income tax withholding requirement of 3 1/3% based on the gross sales price on the disposition (sale) of real property under certain circumstances.

JP told her that by law she could not withhold rent. 

Now I use a PM for my CA rentals because CA started withholding tax for out of state landlords.

Go through the process and teach yourself how to lawfully calculate damages, withhold the deposit and get a judgement.  

Most states have a proper way to with hold .

I was not expecting 2 month's rent to be withhold, just one.my rent is not above market. in fact, i am getting $75 more than what the previous tenant was paying. my house is in the perfect location, amazing house and people think they can get in...until they see the requirements that i have listed to get in. that's why i had just 3 applications and rejected 2.I just talked to him after he avoided 6-7 of our calls.

Once the tenant starts withholding rents for repairs, they can do so until the repair is effected, but the amounts must be held in an escrow account. 

First, if you haven't given them their deposit back, I'd withhold it, saying that it has to go to the unpaid utility bill.Most likely the utility company will come after you for the bill, and expect you to sue the tenant.