I moved out of my old apartment six months ago, but still haven’t gotten back my security deposit. My former landlord isn’t returning my phone calls or e-mails. Can I go directly to the bank where the escrow is being held? — Peter D., Tudor City
Is it safe to presume you didn’t leave your place looking like the Mark hotel’s presidential suite did after Johnny Depp and Kate Moss wrecked it in 1994? (They blamed the $10,000 in damage on a nowhere-to-be-found armadillo.) New York state law stipulates that your refund (or a statement of damages) should be sent within a “reasonable” amount of time; vague, yes, but generally understood to be anywhere from 30 to 90 days. Since it’s been far longer than that, you need to take action . . . but not with the bank. The landlord is the bank’s customer, and the financial institution cannot deal with you directly. Instead, you should contact the New York state attorney general’s office, says banker Ed Coudriet, an industry pro who regularly deals with escrow matters.
I’m worried that the managing agent in my building is getting kickbacks from the vendors she recommends. What’s the best way for the co-op board to approach her? —Patricia H., Kips Bay
Tread very, very carefully here. This is not the sort of accusation to be made lightly. If you have amassed incontrovertible evidence, I’d start interviewing new managing agents pronto. (You don’t want to fire the current agent and leave the building un-managed.) Until you have a new agent in place, review all vendor proposals with a fine-tooth comb, and be sure the building has gotten multiple bids. When you are ready to cut the agent loose, I’d keep the conversation professional, but do highlight your findings. Perhaps things will be different for the next building she manages.
The co-op board where I’ll be buying my new home is notoriously snooty. What should I do to impress them during my interview? — Michael K., Chelsea
Treat this like an interview for the job of your dreams . . . get a haircut, put on your best suit and tie, shine your shoes and arrive on time with all your paperwork in neat order. Look each board member in the eye and offer a firm handshake and a smile as you’re introduced around the room. Remember (and use) each board member’s name at least once during the interview. Be friendly, but not gushingly chatty. Answer their questions politely, and come prepared with some queries of your own. Know the co-op’s history and compliment the board on its successful stewardship of the building. Flattery (in moderation) will get you everywhere.
Next column: What to do when a neighbor’s pet becomes a building nuisance. Got a question? Drop me a line at testingthemarketnyc@gmail.com or tweet me @MisterManners.