Landlord guide

Got a deposit demand letter?

A tenant demand letter is usually the last step before small claims court. A prompt, itemized response backed by sealed evidence is the fastest way to close it out.

1. Check your deadline

Within fourteen days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays or other legal holidays, after termination of the tenancy, delivery of possession and demand by the tenant, the landlord must provide an itemized list of deductions and any amount due. Unless the tenant makes other arrangements in writing, these must be mailed by first class mail to the tenant’s last known residence.

2. Compare move-in and move-out

Open the tenant's sealed move-in and move-out reports side by side. Deduct only for damage beyond ordinary wear and tear and unpaid rent.

3. Itemize every deduction

List each item, the room, the cost and the photo that supports it. Vague lump sums are what lead to double-damage claims under § 33-1321(E).

4. Respond in writing

Send the refund and itemized statement together, with the report number and verification link so the tenant, a mediator or a judge can confirm the scan wasn't altered.

Have the evidence before you need it

Tenants scan at move-in and move-out; sealed reports land in your portal automatically.

ScanPortal Pro is documentation software and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed Arizona attorney for your specific situation.