NYC Real Estate Lawyers Security Deposit Full Return

The client had resided in a New York City apartment under a long term residential lease and paid a security deposit totaling $1.2 million.

Approximately four months before the lease expiration date, the tenant clearly notified the landlord of the intent not to renew the lease and requested timely return of the deposit upon move out.

The tenant vacated the premises on schedule, returned possession in good condition, and documented the handover through written communications and move out records.

Following the tenant’s full vacatur, the landlord asserted vague internal reasons for delaying payment without citing any lease based deductions or documented damages.

The tenant, relying on the deposit to satisfy refinancing and relocation obligations, faced potential loan default risks and additional interest costs.

At this stage, NYC real estate lawyers determined that voluntary resolution was unlikely and that formal legal action was necessary.

Counsel compiled lease agreements, payment confirmations, written notice of non renewal, proof of vacatur, and correspondence demonstrating the landlord’s delay.

Financial documentation was introduced to establish the real world impact of the deposit withholding, reinforcing the urgency of judicial relief.

Property ownership records were reviewed to assess post judgment enforcement options and minimize collection risk.

The court issued a judgment ordering the landlord to return the full $1.2 million security deposit to the tenant.

The decision confirmed that a landlord may not condition repayment on speculative future leasing activity or internal administrative delays.

Through the guidance of NYC real estate lawyers, the client recovered the entire deposit without reduction.