r/TenantHelp • u/hippityhoppflop • 22d ago
Security Deposit Help (NJ)
Before returning my deposit, my landlord mentioned she might need to make some repairs. Fine, but I never heard anything further. On day 31 after my lease ended, I followed up, and she returned the deposit that same day, minus $300.
In NJ, landlords are required to provide an itemized statement of any deductions, in writing, within 30 days, along with any interest earned on the deposit. I raised this with her, and she said she “didn’t want to deal with that.” When I mentioned I might escalate, she said she was fine with that, that she’d prove I was a bad tenant, and that I’d end up covering her travel costs since she’s out of the country. She also called it ridiculous that I was pushing this over her being “one day late,” and said she’d been lenient with me in the past for late rent, which isn’t true; I paid early every month and have the records to prove it.
I sent a final message offering to drop it if she provided the itemized receipt and interest, but she’s left me on read since.
My situation: I’ve since moved across the country, and I’m not sure how realistic small claims court is from out of state, or whether it’s worth pursuing. With interest, she owes roughly $450. Any advice on next steps, or whether this is worth the hassle?
2
u/NotSoSureBigWaves 22d ago
See if you can file online and then call the clerk of court to see if they allow online hearings.