Is my former landlord correct that my Pet Deposit does not cover worn down grass in the back yard?

I meant to say $555 for the lawn…not $55. I wouldn’t pitch a fit about 55 bucks, but 5 HUNDRED and 55 is another matter.

They are charging $555 for a 2 ft by 5 ft section?? You could practically re-sod an entire yard for that price! Here is what my advice is:

1.) Read your landlord-tenant law. Every state has them, and is different. Know your rights! Check out this website: http://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/HomelessnesstoHomeownership/PDFs/Landlord_Tenant_Handbook.pdf

2.) Look at your lease. Does it say that the yard is maintained by the landlord or tenant?

3.) Get an estimate from a professional on how much it would cost to reseed the area, and have them print it out. Send that copy to the landlord.

4.) In the state of Florida, the landlord has to give the tenant 7 business days to fix the “problem” ourselves. Which if you threw seed down yourself, it would cost under $10 most likely.

5.) All else fails you may enter a claim in small claims court however there are filing fees but the loser of the case is forced to pay those. Communicate with your landlord in writing only by email or preferred certified mail. Use state statutes to back up your reasoning as well.