Issue of returning a deposit
My friend came to stay with me, renting out my extra room. but we had a fall out. she demanded her deposit back on nov 23, i advised that she can get it when she moves nov 30, she demanded it for nov 23, so i said that should be your exit date as well. she agreed. she moved out but has refused to hand over the key or let me check the room until she gets her deposit back and shes moved out. Shes staying elsewhere, but refuses to give my keyes. Now I have not been able to get anyone else to share and its end of month tomoro. what can I do
Category: Property, Rental Matters
Region: South Africa, Western Cape
1 Answer
If you had no lease agreement in place, the usual period to return the deposit is within 2 weeks. On her vacation from the premises, you have the right to do an inspection before returning the deposit, less damages etc. Inform your friend that you will get a locksmith to open the room at her expense, to enable you inspect. Likewise you will charge her for the keys, as well as the loss her refusal has caused you. If she does not respond within 24 hours, do exactly that and deduct from the deposit.