Tenant Considers Legal Action Against Landlord Over Delayed Deposit: AITA?

AITA for considering legal action against my landlord who keeps delaying my security deposit refund despite vague excuses for months?

Damjan

Published in Interesting
27 Oct 2025

Tenant Considers Legal Action Against Landlord Over Delayed Deposit: AITA?

Are you in a sticky situation with a landlord who's been dragging their feet on returning your security deposit? Imagine being in a scenario where you've been a model tenant, always paying your dues on time, only to face delays and vague excuses when it's time to get back what's rightfully yours.

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Well, that's precisely the dilemma our Reddit user, a responsible 28-year-old tenant, finds himself in. After meticulously cleaning his rented apartment and vacating early with the landlord's approval, months have passed, and the security deposit is still MIA.

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The landlord, Alex, keeps citing "family emergencies" as the reason for the hold-up but fails to offer any concrete proof or updates. Understandably, our Redditor is feeling frustrated and taken advantage of, and is considering seeking legal advice to resolve the situation.

The Reddit community echoes this sentiment, reassuring our troubled tenant that exploring legal options may be the most effective way to address the issue. The consensus is clear: after enduring prolonged delays and a lack of transparency, seeking legal guidance is not only reasonable but necessary to safeguard one's rights.

So, what's your take on this predicament?

Original Post

I (28M) rented an apartment for two years from a landlord named Alex. The lease ended, and I decided to move out early, with Alex's approval.

I made sure to clean the apartment spotless before leaving. However, it's been months, and my security deposit still hasn't been returned.

Every time I follow up, Alex claims there are "family emergencies" preventing the refund but never provides proof or updates. I'm starting to feel taken advantage of and frustrated with the situation.

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For background, I've been a reliable tenant, always paying rent on time and taking care of the property. I understand emergencies can happen, but the lack of transparency and continuous delays are concerning.

I'm considering seeking legal advice to get my deposit back. Am I the a*****e for considering legal action, or should I continue waiting for Alex's refund?