Full question:
I gave $400 dollars to a landlord for partial deposit with a balance of $500 but we could not agree on terms so no contract was signed. I have only a receipt stating that I gave her $400 dollars for partial deposit. I did not move in the place at all. Am I entitled to my money back?
- Category: Landlord Tenant
- Subcategory: Security Deposit
- Date:
- State: Ohio
Answer:
According to Ohio law, a security deposit is typically refundable unless it has been applied to unpaid rent or damages. Since you did not sign a rental agreement and did not occupy the property, you may be entitled to a refund of your $400 deposit.
Ohio Revised Code § 5321.16 outlines that any money held as a security deposit must be returned unless the landlord can demonstrate damages or unpaid rent. In your case, since no agreement was signed and you did not move in, you should request your deposit back. If the landlord fails to return it, you may be able to recover the amount withheld, along with possible damages and attorney fees.
Consider providing the landlord with a written request for your deposit and keep a copy for your records. If necessary, you can seek legal assistance to help recover your funds.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.