A COMMON LANDLORD-TENANT ISSUE The Battle Over Security Deposits
If you’ve ever rented an apartment or other residential property, you’ve likely read the phrase “first and security.” In the majority of leases, a security deposit is required, along with your first month’s rent, to finalize a lease. This deposit is intended to cover the landlord in the event of damages that go beyond normal wear and tear. Unfortunately, the level of damage that allows a landlord to withhold a portion of a tenant’s deposit is the subject of much dispute. Because of this lack of clarity, security deposits are often the source of serious disagreement. There is no unilateral New York law limiting the amount of a security deposit. Certain cities and counties, however, do place caps on the figure. You should know the laws in your area to avoid being charged or charging too much. Even where laws aren’t in place, a landlord will see pushback from potential tenants if the deposit deviates much from one month’s rent. HOW MUCH CAN A LANDLORD CHARGE FOR THE SECURITY DEPOSIT?
HOW LONG DOES A LANDLORD HAVE TO RETURN A DEPOSIT? Again, the law is pretty murky, only specifying that it should be returned in “a reasonable amount of time.” It’s up to a court to decide what’s reasonable, but 21–45 days is typical. FOR WHICH DAMAGES CAN THE LANDLORD DEDUCT A PORTION OF THE DEPOSIT? The short answer is that any serious damage or excessive filth can be cause for a charge. Normal wear and tear does not qualify. Some possible damages include carpet tears, broken tiles, excessive holes in the wall, animal stains, broken locks, damaged appliances, and excessive bathroom filth. Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, a clear understanding of security deposit rules and expectations will lead to fewer confrontations. Deposits may be a thorny issue, but any conflict can be resolved through communication.
SUDOKU
BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH SAUSAGE MICHELE’S RECIPE CORNER
Looking for an easy, delicious Thanksgiving side dish? This gem requires only a few ingredients.
Grid n°72300 easy
INGREDIENTS
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• 2 tablespoons olive oil • 3 1/3 ounces fresh, hot Italian sausage • 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts 1. Trim sprouts and cut in half. 2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, 3–5 minutes. 3. Add sprouts to skillet. Add 1/2 cup water. Add salt and pepper. Cover and cook 10 minutes or until just tender. Check them periodically and add a bit more water, if necessary. DIRECTIONS
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• 1/2 cup water • Salt and pepper
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4. When sprouts are just about
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done, remove cover and raise heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring just once or twice, for a couple more minutes. The liquid should evaporate, and the sprouts should start to brown.
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5. Add more salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot or warm.
Recipe courtesy of InTheKitchenWithKath.com.
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