How to Get Your Security Deposit Returned: Complaint Letters and Writing Tips

Last updated on January 03, 2023 - © Free-Sample-Letter.com

What is a Security Deposit?

A security deposit is a sum of money that is held by a landlord, property manager, or other rental company as a form of protection against potential damages to a rental property. The security deposit is typically equal to one or two month's rent and is collected at the beginning of the tenancy from the tenant. It’s held in a separate account or trust and is returned to the tenant at the end of the tenancy, provided there is no damage to the property. Some jurisdictions have laws that regulate the amount of security deposits that can be collected and the conditions under which they must be returned.

How to Write a Successful Security Deposit Refund Request Letter

Here are some tips for writing a successful security deposit refund request letter:

Use a professional tone: Your letter should be written in a professional and courteous tone, as you’re requesting the return of a significant amount of money.
Provide your rental and personal details: Include your full name, current address, and the address of the rental property in your letter.
Clearly state the purpose of your letter: Begin your letter by stating the purpose of your letter, which is to request the return of your security deposit.
Mention the amount of the security deposit: Specify the amount of the security deposit that you paid at the beginning of the tenancy.
Explain why you’re entitled to a refund / return: Explain why you believe you’re entitled to a full or partial refund of your security deposit. For example, you may have left the property in good condition or you may have paid for any damages that occurred during your tenancy.
Request a specific action: End your letter by clearly stating what you would like the landlord or property manager to do. For example, you may request that the security deposit be refunded in full or that any deductions be itemized and explained.
Use a closing salutation: End your letter with a closing salutation such as "Sincerely" or "Thank you" and your signature.

➤ You May Also be Interested in Our Rental Termination Sample Letters for Tenant and Landlord

Need to Craft a Request for Refund/Return of Security Deposit? Use Our Templates

Example of Request Letter for Security Deposit Refund from Landlord

Dear [Landlord],

I am writing to request the return of my security deposit in the amount of [amount], which was due to be refunded to me upon my move-out from your rental property at [address]. It has been over a month since I vacated the property and I have not yet received the deposit.

As you are aware, I fulfilled all of my obligations as a tenant, including paying rent on time and taking care of the property. I also provided you with a list of any necessary repairs or damages prior to my departure. Based on these factors, I believe I am entitled to a full refund of my security deposit.

I would greatly appreciate it if you could expedite the refund process as soon as possible. If there are any deductions from the deposit, please provide me with a detailed explanation and the remaining amount that will be refunded to me.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Requesting a Security Deposit Refund for a Holiday Apartment Rental

Dear (name of apartment owner/s),

It was a pleasure staying in your apartment for the (2 weeks) we were in (name of city/location).

We are writing concerning our security deposit of ($500 etc.) which has still not been refunded to us since we left. We had initially sent the deposit through to you together with the rental amount at the time of booking. This was sent to (bank details etc.).

You advised us that the amount would be refunded to us at the end of our stay, as long as the apartment was returned to you in the same condition, as it was when we received the key.

We left the apartment in perfect condition, (one glass was broken only) and our electricity usage was calculated up to the amount of ($20) which you mentioned would be deducted from the deposit before sending the rest back to us via (bank transfer etc.).

It has been (4) weeks now since we left (name of city) and your lovely apartment, we would very much appreciate if the remaining ($000.00) could be transferred back to us as soon as possible.

We hope to be able to return to (name of city) and we would certainly choose to stay in your apartment on our next visit.

Awaiting your reply and update,

All the best,

(Annie & Mike)

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