ComplaintsforCass Been Lashed LLC

• Initial Complaint

  08/01/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Order Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I made a good faith security deposit payment not included in the signed lease agreement. In the total amount of $1150 USD. The Lessor is now refusing to return my security deposit, on a baseless claim that it is being applied to my rent charges. Which were paid separately and in full. The lessor also used bait and switch tactics to try and confuse me the lessee and take advantage of the monies paid to her. Paid $1900 USD Total.

  Business response

  08/09/2024

  To Whom It May Concern,
  
  I am writing to address the concerns raised by **** *************************** regarding her rental experience at our salon suites.
  
  **** *************************** moved into our salon suite on May 6, 2024. At that time, we were offering a promotional rate of $99 for the first four weeks, along with a required security deposit. The standard rent for the suite is $750 per month. Upon moving in, ********************************;paid the full first month's rent of $750 and a security deposit of $400. It should be noted that while the standard security deposit is $750, we were offering a reduced deposit as part of our promotional offer.
  
  As agreed, ********************************;paid $750 for the month of May and an additional $750 for the month of June, as she occupied the space during these periods. Upon reviewing the contract and payments, I realized that we had inadvertently failed to prorate the rent for May. Given her move-in date of May 6, the prorated rent for May should have been calculated for 25 days, amounting to $604.75. This oversight means that ********************************;overpaid $145.25 for the month of May. I sincerely apologize for this error which I communicated to **** ***************************.
  
  When  **** *************************** contacted me about her security deposit, I initially responded incorrectly, stating that she was not entitled to a refund. After further review of her contract, I realized the mistake and immediately informed her that she was indeed entitled to the return of her $400 security deposit, along with the overpayment of $145.25. I communicated my willingness to refund both amounts to her.
  
  Despite my efforts to resolve the situation, **** *************************** expressed dissatisfaction, stating that she felt overwhelmed by her investment in starting her business, which did not go as planned. She indicated that she would pursue a claim in small claims court instead of accepting the refund.
  
  I want to clarify that as a landlord, I am responsible for providing a rental space for independent contractors, and it is not within my control or responsibility to guarantee the success of their business endeavors. My goal has always been to support our tenants, and I regret that this situation has escalated despite my efforts to rectify the issue.
  
  **** *************************** occupied the space for the entirety of May and June (with the exception of the prorated days in May). I do not typically offer month-to-month leases, but I made an exception for her based on her request.
  
  In summary:
  - I acknowledge the error in not prorating her rent for May and am willing to refund the overpaid amount of $145.25.
  - I am prepared to return her $400 security deposit, as she is entitled to it.
  - **** *************************** has communicated that she does not wish to accept these funds and plans to pursue a claim in small claims court.
  - **** *************************** is entitled to a refund of $145.25 for the overpaid rent in May, in addition to her $400 security deposit totaling $545.25.

  
  I remain open to resolving this matter amicably and hope we can come to an understanding.
  
  Sincerely,  
  *****************
  Cass Been Lashed
  ********************************

  ************

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