Is it rude to ask for your deposit back?
No. A security deposit is your money, held for you. Asking for it back is a normal part of moving out, and New York law spells out what the landlord has to do.
Why it can feel hard
Plenty of people go along with whatever the landlord says to keep the peace. It can feel like the landlord is the one in charge, or that asking will seem pushy. But the deposit rules apply whether or not anyone brings them up.
How to ask without a fight
- Check the facts: your move-out date and whether you got an itemized list within 14 days.
- Send a short, friendly message that mentions the rule and the amount.
- If there's no answer, send a formal demand letter. It's polite, sticks to facts, and gives a date to respond.
You never have to call or meet your landlord. Everything can be done in writing, and nothing is sent unless you send it.
The law is on the record
In New York, it's the landlord's job to show that any amount kept was reasonable. Ordinary wear and tear can't be charged at all.
Check my deposit
About 2 minutes. Your result costs nothing and needs no account.
Based on N.Y. General Obligations Law ยง 7-108, checked October 2026. General information, not legal advice.