Q: How long does a tenant have to claim a security deposit?
I rented out a room in my house. A few days before moving out I texted my tenant to leave me her forwarding address so I can mail her the deposit. When she moved out she didn't turn in her keys and never left me her forwarding address. It's been about 3 weeks. At what point does she forfeit her deposit? No I haven't attempted to contact her...is it really my responsibility?
A: You must hold the deposit for collection by the tenant for at least six months. Have you tried mailing a letter to your rental as she may have placed a forward on mail to that address, as opposed to providing it to you. I would send this letter to document your efforts to return the deposit and attempt to contact the tenant, as well.
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