28-17 33 Street,

Queens, NY 11102

Great location; safe

I was a good tenant for 3 years. Never complained even with the erratic heating system; always paid my rent; never disturbed other tenants in the building; kept my apartment in good condition; never made messes in the common area. When I moved out, I replaced things with my own money, came back after it was empty to give the unit a thorough cleaning, and even left my window AC unit for the next tenant for no charge. I contacted landlord Vincent Buffa several times to ask when I could expect my security deposit back. After 1-2 replies of "I'll let you know," he started ignoring me and I still haven't received my deposit over a year later. I explored taking legal action, but in the end, it would've cost me more to take him to small claims court than the $1500 he owes me. He knows that and is obviously milking it for all it's worth. I understand the pandemic has put some landlords in a tricky spot, and I don't want to assume anything about Mr. Buffa's specific situation, but that doesn't make it right. If you're not able to give me my security deposit back, then just say so and don't ignore me or the situation. If it's because of COVID, then I will understand. I abided by all the clauses in my lease, and I expected him to do the same. Renting should be a two-way street, and if you're not going to try to make it right, then at least acknowledge it. Just another crook that gives all NYC landlords a bad name.

If people are good tenants and leave the apartment better than when they found it, do the right thing and give them their security deposit back.