Inherited Tenants and Security Deposit

[Jenny Adel]

My parents have recently inherited a tenant in a tri-plex in which the previous owner/landlord SPENT the security deposit (obviously illegal- lots more shady business in this deal gone bad). My question is- how do my parents legally proceed in the state as far as giving or not giving a security deposit back when the tenant moves out next month? Thanks!

[Thomas S.]

You do not have options. Legally if there are no damage repair costs the landlord must return the deposit. The fact that the new owner did not do their proper due dilligance to protect themselves during the purchase process is not the tenants problem.