Belleville, MI asked in Landlord - Tenant for Michigan

Q: Can an apartment take my security deposit and say I owe them money for damages when there were none we have pictures.

They said there was damages to a countertop and bathroom vanity and there was absolutely nothing wrong with them and we took pictures. My security deposit was $300 and they took that and said I owe them $231. They also got $300 for a week's rent when monthly rent is 595 for supposed late fees they said I had.

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2 Lawyer Answers
Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
Answered
  • Grand Rapids, MI
  • Licensed in Michigan

A: You can ask the court to hold an evidentiary hearing.

Mark Bredow
Mark Bredow
Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Bloomfield Hills, MI
  • Licensed in Michigan

A: Respond to the landlord's notice of damages in writing within 7 days of the date that you received the notice of damages. Mail it to the LL certified mail and get a receipt. If you dispute the damages in this time the landlord has a choice, refund the security deposit or take the matter to court. LL has to file his case within 45 days of the date you vacated the property and turned in the keys. Consider filing a small claims case against the landlord.

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