Money
How to get your security deposit back
You’re talking to Mr. Novak, your old landlord. You moved out a month ago and left the place clean. Mr. Novak kept part of your deposit for “cleaning and wear.” The goal: ask what each charge was for, show why it doesn’t hold up, and ask for a specific amount back by a date.
Your first line
Mr. Novak starts with “Hello, Novak here. What can I do for you?”
“Hi Mr. Novak, it’s about my deposit. You kept $450 of my $1,200 for cleaning and wear. Could you send me an itemized list with receipts?”
Number first: the exact amounts, then a calm, specific ask. Asking for receipts shows you’re serious without starting a fight.
What Mr. Novak might say, and what to say back
Mr. Novak: “The place needed a deep clean.”
You: “I cleaned everything, and I have move-out photos of every room. What did the cleaning actually cost?”
Mr. Novak: “There’s always some wear to fix after someone moves out.”
You: “Can you tell me exactly what the wear charge was for? The place was in good shape when I left.”
Mr. Novak: “I already sent you the rest. I thought we were done.”
You: “I appreciate that. Since I left it clean, I’m asking for the $450 back by next Friday. Can you text me when it’s sent?”
Two things that trip people up
- A vague “that’s not fair,” or yelling.Say the exact amounts, ask what each charge was for, and stay calm.
- Accepting “that’s just what it costs.”Ask for an itemized list with receipts, and a specific amount back by a date, in writing.
Now say it out loud
Reading the words isn’t the same as saying them. Practice this one with Mr. Novak pushing back like the real person would. Then your coach, Max, fixes your exact words. The move to focus on: Number first.
Practice this one free3 free reps a day. No sign-up. Out loud or typed.