How the Deposit Recovery System Works
Oregon deposit disputes have a 31-day accounting rule, a possession-delivery trigger, and deduction limits, so the system breaks the response into four clear steps.
Why one letter usually is not enough
Oregon is not just a "send one demand letter" state. The dispute can depend on when the tenancy ended, when the landlord got the rental back, whether a written accounting was sent, whether prepaid rent is involved, and whether the deductions fit ORS 90.300.
The system keeps the 31-day rule, written accounting, refund balance, delivery record, and deduction issues in a practical order.
The 4-step process
Step 1
Documents move-out, tenancy termination, delivery of possession, current address, and deposit-response facts before the dispute starts.
Step 2
Makes the first firm request after Oregon's 31-day deadline has passed.
Step 3
Provides a statute-backed entitlement and escalation notice if the issue remains unresolved.
Step 4
Gives one final written demand before small claims or other appropriate action.
How to use the steps
- Start with the step that matches your situation
- Use one step at a time
- Wait and document the response
- Move to the next step only if needed
The goal is to resolve the issue before court becomes necessary while also building a better record if it does not resolve.
When this helps
This process helps when the landlord delays the deposit, never sends a written accounting, sends unsupported deductions, treats ordinary wear as damage, or mixes prepaid rent with deposit deductions without a clear explanation.
It is meant to keep the response calm, documented, and in the right order before deciding whether court is necessary.
What To Do Next
A step-by-step Oregon deposit recovery system with the letters, timing, and next steps in one place.
Get the Deposit Recovery SystemImportant: This system provides general information and templates. It is not legal advice.