Moscow needs stronger renter protections
I’m about to move out of my apartment and I’m worried I won’t get all my deposit back. What I can do?
Max Cowan | Argonaut
Q&A
Answers to questions
regarding university policies, procedures or student life
The hard truth is that the best time to ensure you get all of your deposit back is the first day you move in. While most reputable landlords or management companies will have you fill out a damage assessment when you move in to document the condition of your apartment, they have no legal requirement to do so.
If you did take photos and fill out a form, you are in great shape. Talk to your landlord about what they look for when you move out and clean your apartment thoroughly. This should ensure you get as much of your deposit back as possible.
Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous landlords who will try to keep your deposit no matter what. This is why you need to know your rights. If they want your deposit, they have to fight you for it. Assuming you actually didn’t damage your apartment and deserve your deposit, you can win the fight.
Your landlord has to provide you with a list of the charges with justifications of why they should keep your deposit. If you think these are unjust, you can file a claim in small claims court. This is not as hard as it sounds. After telling your landlord you plan to file a claim, they may just return the portion of your deposit you are asking for.
The College of Law at the University of Idaho offers a free legal aid clinic and you can ask for advice. Filing a claim for the value of the unjust charges is relatively simple and you don’t need a lawyer. Get your documentation in order, follow the process through and reap the rewards.
Filing a claim in small claims court seems extreme, but it may be necessary, as there are not enough renter protections in Idaho law. Other states and municipalities have laws ensuring landlords can’t charge unjust fees. These protections include ensuring you have better access to information, as well as stronger requirements for the documentation of fees.
Making these protections law are steps the city of Moscow should take to help protect the thousands of students who live off campus. Nearly 70 percent of students live in off-campus housing, driving the economy in the city of Moscow. With how much students contribute to the economic health of our community, stronger renter protections are something we deserve.
The city of Moscow understands the impact students have and they want to help us. There is a Fair and Affordable Housing Commission charged with ensuring renters are treated properly and finding ways to further fair housing practices. If you have thoughts or personal stories about how students could be better treated, step up and get involved.
In a small, close-knit community like Moscow, one person can make a huge impact. Many people forget the power local government has to make a difference in our lives. Take advantage of this opportunity, and even if you don’t get your deposit back this year, you can help ensure next year may be better.
Max Cowan can be reached at [email protected]