Rant: Landlord tried to keep my security deposit for 'normal wear and tear'

So I moved out of my apartment in Logan Square last month after 4 years. Landlord claimed the faded paint and scuffed floors were 'damage' and tried to keep my $1,200 deposit. I did some research and found out Illinois law specifically says normal wear and tear isn't deductible. Had to send a formal demand letter citing the Chicago RLTO and suddenly they backed off. Got the full amount back after 2 weeks of fighting.

3 comments

3 Comments

holly7091d ago

Is it just me or does this whole thing show how landlords count on tenants not knowing their rights? I've heard so many similar stories where people just hand over their deposit because they don't want the hassle. The faded paint thing is such a common trick too, like they think we all just moved in yesterday. It makes you wonder how much money gets stolen this way every year just from people being too scared to push back.

green.noah1d ago

Wait, are they really trying to pass off faded paint as "damage"? I swear some landlords think they can just throw stuff at the wall and see if it sticks. Four years is a long time, paint fades from just sunlight and normal life. Good on you for actually knowing your rights and fighting back. Most people would just give up and let them keep the money.

green.noah1d ago

Wait, did they actually think faded paint after 4 years counts as damage? That's wild.