Needless to say the 95 page home inspection revealed that the property is in less than move-in-ready conditioned.We cancelled Escrow and requested our deposit back.

Not sure the extent but f the damage yet but the few things she told me about will go beyond the security deposit.  

So it is really looking more at bank deposits, but most mom and pop owners won't share bank statements.  

.: I don't charge deposits for animals because deposits are fully refundable.

Tim, in lieu of a damage deposit, have you utilized A deposit insurance such as Rhino? 

I did not read the rules around security deposits. you may be allowed to use those funds and still file a small claims action for any remainder, but I can't imagine that it would be worth it if you have at least one month's rent in security deposit. 

The rent guarantee was never deposited without several reminders that it was past due.In May 2018, ABC told us that the house was almost done, and we could hire a licensed Home Inspector to inspect the home.

It doesn’t have to be occupied by tenants, just a signed lease + deposit.

Earnest Money Deposit 3. 

The vast majority of lawsuits against landlords involve wrongful eviction, security deposit disputes, and Fair Housing Violations.