Landlord Security Deposit Dispute

Summary

If a landlord refuses to return a security deposit, consider mediation or filing a claim at the local tribunal dinstance. Gather all relevant documents, such as receipts and letters, to support your case. Legal aid may be available if you meet income requirements. Small claims court typically involves lower fees. Free legal clinics can also provide guidance.

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I'm reaching out because I have a landlord refusing to give our security deposit back (in fact, they want us to pay $*). I provided receipts that prove we had close to $* done on the house (maids, carpet cleaning, maintenace) before we left it in very good condition. They provided receipts for only about $* worth of work on their end. They have refused to reach back out to try and resolve the issue so I'm reaching out to see if we can get our very much deserved money back.
Hi ****! Here are some general steps you can take in Ile-de-France regarding your security deposit issue:
- Send a formal demand letter (lettre de mise en demeure) to the landlord.
- Include all receipts and evidence of the property's condition.
- If unresolved, consider approaching a local mediator (médiateur) or filing a claim in the local court (tribunal d'instance).
Would you like more detailed guidance on any of these steps?
already sent letter and receipts
If you've already sent a formal demand letter and receipts, you might consider the following steps:
- Mediation: Contact a local mediator (médiateur) to facilitate a resolution.
- Legal Action: File a claim at the local "tribunal d'instance" if mediation doesn't work.
Would you like assistance with finding a mediator or more information on filing a claim?
How do I mediate if they don't respond
Case Rating: *
If your landlord is not responding, mediation might still be an option:
- Engage a Mediator: Contact a local mediation service in Ile-de-France to initiate the process. The mediator will reach out to the landlord on your behalf.
- Legal Notice: Mention potential legal action to encourage a response.
Would you like more information on finding a mediator?
I threatened legal action already
Case Rating: *
Since you've already threatened legal action, you might consider proceeding with filing a claim at the local "tribunal d'instance" if mediation is not yielding results. This action can be more compelling for the landlord to respond. Would you like more information on how to file this claim?
yes
Case Rating: *
In Ile-de-France, you can file a claim at the "tribunal d'instance." Here’s how:
- Gather all supporting documents (lease, receipts, letters).
- Fill out the required form or petition for small claims.
- Submit it to the local court.
Would you like assistance with any specific part of this process?
how do i afford this
Case Rating: *
Filing a claim at the "tribunal d'instance" may involve some costs, but there are ways to manage these expenses:
- Legal Aid (Aide Juridictionnelle): You might qualify for legal aid if your income is below a certain threshold.
- Small Claims Court: Generally has lower fees than other courts.
- Consult Free Legal Clinics: Some organizations offer free legal advice.
Would you like further assistance on any of these options?