Newberry, FL asked in Real Estate Law and Landlord - Tenant for Florida

Q: My ex-roommate finally vacated our old unit. Can I get my 1/2 of the deposit back? The property is under new ownership.

We parted ways on bad terms; I moved out, she stayed and found a new roommate. She never let me know when she finally did move out, and now the property is under new ownership. Do I have any chance of getting my half of the deposit back? I don't even know when she actually moved out or if a statute of limitations applies.

2 Lawyer Answers
Andy Wayne Williamson
Andy Wayne Williamson
Answered
  • MIramar Beach, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: Most likely no. As you state you do not have a lot of information. Typically a landlord has 30 days to give written notice to make a claim on the security deposit but if the landlord does not intend to make a claim he is to return the security deposit within 15 days.

Most likely the security deposit was refunded to your ex-roommate. Was that right or wrong, no way to say. the point is that the effort you will need to expend to try to get 1/2 of the security deposit is likely not worth it.

Good luck,

Steve Louis-Charles agrees with this answer

Steve Louis-Charles
Steve Louis-Charles pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered
  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: You must demand your half of the deposit from the landlord. If prior to moving in you were listed on the lease and as paying half of the deposit, provided that the landlord did not deduct any amount from it, it is the responsibility of the landlord to repay you your half of the deposit.

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