Most tenant disputes in New York are already decided by a statute, the landlord just hasn't been reminded of it in writing. A deposit held past fourteen days is forfeited under GOL § 7-108. A broker fee charged for the landlord's own broker is illegal under the FARE Act. Belongings kept after a move-out are conversion. A board that ignores the proprietary lease is in breach of a contract.
These letters put the right statute in front of the right person on law-firm letterhead, with a deadline and the consequences spelled out. Each one is screened free before you pay, drafted within minutes, signed by a New York attorney, and mailed within 48 hours.
No, but it is the step that resolves most deposit disputes without a court date, and it becomes your first exhibit if you do file. New York small claims takes deposit cases up to $10,000 in New York City for a $15–$20 filing fee.
Charges for normal wear and tear, vague 'cleaning' or 'damage' fees without receipts, and deductions with no itemization are still improper under GOL § 7-108. The security deposit letter addresses bad charges as well as missed deadlines.
It covers all five boroughs. Since June 11, 2025, no landlord's agent in New York City can collect a broker fee from the tenant; a fee paid after that date for the landlord's broker is the subject of a refund demand.