text: can a landlord keep my deposit due to late charges we were never informed about? we signed a lease over a year ago and it expired and we never recieved a copy of it after asking several times for it.  my landlord says we have acrued many late fees and that is why i won't get my deposit back.  is there anything i can do about getting my deposit back?  and also, they say were owe for damages that were done before we moved in. sounds like my case which is still going on. look up the state statutes in your state and find the landlord/tenant rules. most states say the landlord has to give a written list of deductions /damages with balance of security deposit within 30 days. if you have pics, that will help a lot. by most laws, if a request for a signed contract is stated, they must give you a copy. what i have done so far was went and bought the book "everybody's guide to small claims court." in there is lists many facts that will help you. you will probably end up taking him to small claims court. if he did not give you a list of deductions and you fullfilled your tenancy requirements, the judge will rule in your favor. make sure to send a couple of demand letters certified mail as well. hope this helps.