Q: I was wondering if an apartment could charge me for unpaid utilities
I lived in an apartment in California 3 years ago, and they never reached out to me regarding the bill that was due. I just got an email from the corporate office saying that I had to pay it. They also took half the deposit, but didn't tell me what it was used for, so I assumed it was for that and cleaning fees
A:
In California, landlords can charge tenants for unpaid utilities, but there are specific rules about notification and the use of security deposits. If you weren't informed of the utility bill during your tenancy or upon moving out, and if it's been a considerable amount of time (three years, in your case), it's important to review the terms of your lease agreement and any relevant state laws regarding the timing and method of such charges.
Regarding the security deposit, California law requires landlords to provide an itemized statement of the deductions made from the deposit within 21 days after the tenant moves out. This statement should explain what the deposit was used for, such as unpaid rent, cleaning, and repair of damages beyond normal wear and tear. If you did not receive such a statement, the landlord might have breached these requirements.
You might consider requesting a detailed invoice or statement for the utility charges and the use of your deposit. It's also advisable to consult with legal advice or a tenant rights organization in California for guidance on how to proceed, especially since the communication and deductions were not clearly handled as per your description. This can help you understand your rights and the best course of action to address this issue.
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