Bad tenants

[Charles Player]

My last tenant did not pay last months rent and basically used her deposit for it. Her deposit was way less than the rent due. She did clean up the property and gave me $300, but there is still damage.She basically decided for herself that she would get all her deposit back.What recourse do I have here?

[Jon Holdman]

She decided for herself? Its not her decision. First, you screwed up by not posting a pay or quit notice the first day the rent was late. Deposit is not last month's rent, so last month's rent is due just the same as any other month's. No rent, start the eviction process.

What was the $300 for? Partial rent?

Now that she's left, you need to provide an accounting of the security deposit. You need to itemize the charges. At the least, it sounds she owes you the last months rent, late fees(?), and repairs for any damages. She has credits of the $300 and her security deposit. If there's anything left, send it to her. If not, send her a bill for the difference.