Mesa woman gets $1,295 security deposit returned

MESA, AZ (AZFamily) — Hazel Bell has $1,295 back in her pocket thanks to On Your Side. “I believe a lot of people don’t realize the resource that Gary Harper is,” Hazel said. “He really helps a lot of people get their money back.”

In a previous On Your Side report, Hazel explained how she gave her former Phoenix apartment complex her 60-day move-out notice using the apartment’s portal system.

Although she received an automated response indicating they received the notice and that someone would contact her to discuss the next steps, she says no one ever did.

“Nobody, nobody contacted me now,” she said. “So you submitted it again?” Harper asked. Hazel replied, “Yeah, I did submit it again. Nobody contacted me, plus a phone call.” Hazel even submitted her move-out notice in writing to maintenance, just in case.

So, when Hazel started moving into her new apartment complex, she was surprised to receive a bill from her former property management company indicating they were keeping her $1,295 security deposit because they did not see her move-out notice until she was within her 60-day window.

Hazel says that’s not her fault, so she contacted On Your Side for help. “I contacted you, Gary because you always get things done, you help get a great resolution, and you’re friendly,” she said.

After our involvement, the property management company reversed its decision and promised to mail Hazel a check for $1,295. They also waived the additional $100 cleaning fee they billed her for.

Hazel says she is glad she contacted On Your Side for help. “I just didn’t see a recourse other than I don’t know much about renters’ rights and laws. So this has been an excellent way to get a positive response for my situation,” she said.

Tips to ensuring you get your security deposit back:

• Document the condition when you move in. Take photos or videos of the rental unit when you move in to document any existing damage or issues. This can help prevent disputes when you move out.
• Communicate with your landlord. Keep written records of any repairs you need to make during your tenancy. This can help prove that you tried to maintain the property.
• Request a move-out inspection. Before you move out, ask your landlord to do a joint inspection with you. This gives you the chance to address any issues that could affect your security deposit.
• Clean and repair. Before you move out, make sure to thoroughly clean the rental unit and make any necessary repairs. This includes wiping down appliances, scrubbing sinks and showers, cleaning toilets, and dusting ceiling fans and blinds.
• Follow move-out procedures. Review your lease for move-out procedures and provide your landlord with the required notice.
• Be aware of what you’re not responsible for. You’re generally not responsible for normal wear and tear. For example, if a dishwasher needs to be replaced because it wore out, that’s considered normal wear and tear.

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