Dispute Security Deposit Deductions Letter (Template)

Copy/paste template

Subject: Dispute of Security Deposit Deductions — [RENTAL ADDRESS]

Date: [DATE]

To: [LANDLORD / PROPERTY MANAGER NAME]
[LANDLORD ADDRESS OR EMAIL]

Hello [LANDLORD NAME],

I am writing to dispute the deductions from my security deposit for [RENTAL ADDRESS]. I moved out on [MOVE-OUT DATE]. The deductions listed in your statement are not supported and/or include charges that appear to be normal wear and tear or routine turnover maintenance.

Disputed deductions:

1) [DEDUCTION #1 — e.g., “Cleaning fee $250”]
   - Dispute reason: [e.g., no itemization/receipts provided; unit left in similar condition as move-in; photos attached]
   - Requested documentation: [receipt/invoice, photos, scope of work, date of service]

2) [DEDUCTION #2 — e.g., “Carpet replacement $1,200”]
   - Dispute reason: [e.g., wear vs damage; depreciation/remaining useful life not applied; carpet age unknown]
   - Requested documentation: [installation date, replacement invoice, photos of alleged damage]

Please provide the documentation for each deduction and return the disputed amount of $[AMOUNT] within [7–14] days. If I do not hear back, I will consider escalating this dispute through a formal demand and other available remedies.

Sincerely,

[YOUR FULL NAME]
[FORWARDING ADDRESS]
[CITY, STATE ZIP]
[PHONE NUMBER — optional]
[EMAIL — optional]