Security deposit

[warsha...@gmail.com]

Hello all--

I moved out of the building at the end of September. Despite repeated
phone calls and letters, J&O still hasn't returned my security
deposit, or even bothered to respond for that matter (I get as far as
the receptionist and them am put straight to voicemail). My apartment
was left in the same condition as when I moved in, so there's no
excuse on their end. NY law requires return of security deposit in a
"reasonable" period of time, which is typically 30-60 days. So, I've
filed a Small Claims Court action.

My advice if anyone is moving out and would like to see your security
deposit money back: don't pay your last month's rent.

[bdo...@gmail.com]

WOW. Thank you for sounding the warning bell.

[warsha...@gmail.com]

No problem. Please spread the word to the other tenants because I'd
hate for anyone else to wind up in my situation.... It's just a
totally unnecessary hassle.

[Marne]

Did you get this resolved? I have the direct line and email address
of the property manager. Let me know if you need it.

-Marne Loveman

[warsha...@gmail.com]

Thanks for the offer. After I filed a complaint with the small claims
court, I finally heard from J&O and was told that the previous
property manager had left the company. Not sure that explains why
they ignored me for months, but I was given a full refund of the
deposit plus interest and the $20 court filing fee. Better late than
never, as they say! To J&O's credit, they rectified the situation,
but it really shouldn't have been so difficult. Not sure what I'd
advise people moving out, except to follow my example and keep copies
of all letters you send, use certified mail, and if all else fails
threaten legal action.

[jno...@gmail.com]

I'm having the same problem, and I'm happy to hear that you eventually
got this resolved. Maybe there's hope yet!

I moved out December 31st, and right now I'm still in the "being
ignored by J&O" stage. I've been calling since March 1st--60 days--and
have been leaving messages to no avail. Right now I'm debating whether
I should jump straight to small claims or go with a stern letter via
certified mail first.

[jno...@gmail.com]

Just thought I'd follow up for the next person who ended up checking
out this page: I made a call to J&O and actually got through to
someone, was directed to Laura, the (new? current?) manager of the
building, and within 5 minutes had an assurance that the check would
be cut Monday, April 20th. Well, here it is April 22nd, and I got it!
No angry letter necessary.