Landlord charged for pre-existing damage - can I sue for 2X deposit?

Got my itemized statement. Landlord withheld my entire $2,500 security deposit for "carpet replacement - $2,200" and "wall repair - $300."

Problem: I have timestamped photos from move-in day showing the EXACT same carpet stains and wall damage. He's trying to charge me for damage that was already there.

Can I sue for 2X the deposit ($5,000) for bad faith? How do I calculate my total claim?

Ok so good for you for not settling! The security deposit calculator is really helpful for verifying the exact amounts including interest by day. When you have clear evidence like timestamped photos idk, judges almost always award the full 2X penalty.

Make sure to bring printed photos with EXIF data visible, not just phone photos. Courts like hard copies they can examine closely.