Deposit return

[Curtis Denny]

Hello all, just closed on a tri and lo and behold had a move out before I could collect my first month from him. He did tell me he would be out before the first, and he was. No forward address. How long before he forfeits the deposit? Btw left unit spotless! Thanks

[Steve Babiak]

It sounds like this tenant gave proper notice to the former owner, and the former owner neglected to communicate that to you. The notice to the former owner probably even included the new address of the tenant. In any case, most states have a timeline that a landlord must meet in returning the security deposit, or face double or triple the security deposit as damage / penalty; that being the case, try to see if former owner has the new address, if not then mail the check for the deposit to the last known address (your unit) and let the post office forward it, assuming there was a change of address filed. If it comes back to you, keep the envelope UNOPENED as your proof you tried your best to return the deposit.