Renters: Get Your Security Deposit Back

Amanda Flores didn't anticipate any problems getting her rental security deposit back. After all, she paid her portion of the deposit up front to her roommate. In Amanda's view the apartment was nearly perfect, now that she'd cleaned it out and loaded the moving van. There was just one problem: damage to the kitchen cabinetry.

The damage came from her roommate's former boyfriend and his dog. Both had moved out months ago. Amanda didn't worry, though. She left the keys on the counter and drove to her new apartment. The security deposit check would arrive in a few days ... or so she thought.

The money never arrived and the roommate never reimbursed her, either. Here's how to avoid Amanda's fate and get your rental security deposit back quickly.