Need help wording an email

[joannqn]

We just moved out of our old rental. We took the time to clean it very thoroughly so we could get our deposit back. (I used to do turnover cleanings so I know all that it entails and did that level of cleaning.) It is cleaner and in better condition than when we moved in.

 

Having been burned in the past, I took photos upon move in and provided a very detailed move in inspection. I also took photos after we cleaned so I have proof of the condition we left it in. I uploaded the move out photos to a file sharing site and provided a link to the homeowner.

 

So, now the homeowner wants me to give the keys to the neighbor, whom we've had minor problems with. He's supposedly going to do some work on the house for them. At some point, their realtor is suppose to go over to the home and do the inspection. The owner says she'll mail us a check for our deposit as soon as possible.

 

We're not feeling too comfortable with handing over the keys to the neighbor before the final walk through and the walk through being done without us there to discuss issues she comes up with. We envisioned being able to explain, "That damage was there when we moved in. See the copy of the move in inspection here." Nor do we know how long "as soon as possible" means for getting our deposit back. And what if the neighbor dirties the place before the inspection.

 

How would you respond?

[TranquilMind]

joannqn: We just moved out of our old rental. We took the time to clean it very thoroughly so we could get our deposit back. (I used to do turnover cleanings so I know all that it entails and did that level of cleaning.) It is cleaner and in better condition than when we moved in.

 

Having been burned in the past, I took photos upon move in and provided a very detailed move in inspection. I also took photos after we cleaned so I have proof of the condition we left it in. I uploaded the move out photos to a file sharing site and provided a link to the homeowner.

 

You should be fine.

 

So, now the homeowner wants me to give the keys to the neighbor, whom we've had minor problems with. He's supposedly going to do some work on the house for them. At some point, their realtor is suppose to go over to the home and do the inspection. The owner says she'll mail us a check for our deposit as soon as possible.

 

We're not feeling too comfortable with handing over the keys to the neighbor before the final walk through and the walk through being done without us there to discuss issues she comes up with. We envisioned being able to explain, "That damage was there when we moved in. See the copy of the move in inspection here." Nor do we know how long "as soon as possible" means for getting our deposit back. And what if the neighbor dirties the place before the inspection.

 

How would you respond?

 

I'm a landlord and I do understand your concerns. If you are in CA and perhaps some other states, you have a statutory right to a walk-through before you deliver possession back. Is there any reason that the landlord cannot meet you? Is he not local? I'd prefer to meet the tenant, but have also had them simply leave the keys on the counter, so they could arrange their own schedule without waiting for me. Either is fine. I have a written condition statement and do not charge for anything other than dirt (it would have to be unusual dirt - no tenant cleans to my expectations, except 1 guy ever) or damage. Dirt and damage are not ordinary wear and tear. Otherwise I let it go, especially if they have been good, long term tenants.

 

If your landlord is local, ask if she would mind doing quick walk-through, in order to verify the condition before you leave so there aren't any questions afterward. If the landlord simply tells you to give the keys to this neighbor, I don't see how you have any say. You have met your obligations.

 

I'm wondering though, what it is you need to explain, as you mention above? If you have a copy of the original condition statement and the premises are in the same condition, you should be fine.

 

The landlord is only required to mail the security deposit in accordance with state law. Most states allow 30 days; mine allows 45. In practice, I get it to them in a week.

[joannqn]

Thanks for your help.

 

I live in Washington, and the owner lives in Texas. We moved because they informed us, through their realtor, that they intended to list the property as a short sale. It was mid-way through our 2-year lease. They let us out of the lease early (in writing), so we left when a suitable rental was found.

 

I went ahead and emailed her our new address for the deposit and told her I'd drop the keys off with the neighbor. I do have the walk through inspection, the previous property management company records (they canceled their contract with them), and my move-in and move-out photos if needed. It wasn't the best rental experience while we were there so I was just trying to make sure I had all of my bases covered.