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Forum / Move-Out & Eviction / Tenant moved out w no notice, can I keep deposit

I had a new tenant who texted me 4 days before he was going to move out. Can I keep his deposit? I live in California. I don't believe that a "text" is a "written" notice. Please advise asap.. Thank you

Dana T, CA on Tuesday, November 17, 2015

RE: Tenant moved out w no notice, can I keep deposit

A text in court would be considered written notice as it is a technical paper trail. However in most cases and in CA there is 30 Notice required so if it goes to court that you keep his deposit. You will win. You can keep it to help cover the cost of a vacant home while you try to find a new tenant. You will want to still send them a deduction notice and have proof of what the money is going towards.

Posted by Patty H, on Wednesday, November 18, 2015

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