<human>: We just received a check, dated 12/31/14, with a postmark of Feb 6. They claimed to have sent one earlier, but we didn't get anything. Maybe because the first and last names are misspelled.

We vacated the apartment on the 31st of DEC. Gave the keys on the 2nd of Jan [their office was closed for New Years]. Since we did not receive the deposit within 21 days, does that make any deductions 'bad faith retentions?'

Obviously we will ask for a detailed statement regarding deductions. But the new place we moved into is filthy and broken in some cases. If their standard of cleanliness is this low, how can they justify such deductions after 8 years of being model tenants? 

I spent New Years' Eve busting my bad back cleaning, and they had already printed the check with the deductions before even looking at what progress I had made. That seem like the definition of bad faith. The only time we let them in was the pre-moveout inspection weeks before [where she emphasized the screens and windows and I focused on cleaning those areas as requested].

I would prefer not to go to court - it's only $40 and we have to live here for another year. They could retaliate by taking time to fix any repairs we need. But if we act like doormat they will teat us with disrespect as well. I was thinking of writing a letter directly to the owner (the address on the check is a corporate address).

Give me a shortened version of the text
<bot>: Landlord was late in refunding security deposit, made deductions without actually assessing state of apartment. Do we have any standing to complain? What is the best option other than court?