Security deposit advice
Your security deposit is usually one to two months of rent. Here is how to protect it from move-in to move-out.
Know your state and local limits
Many states cap how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit and set deadlines for returning it. In California, for example, landlords can charge up to two months’ rent for an unfurnished unit and must return the deposit or an itemized statement within 21 days. Check your local tenant rights for specifics.
Document the unit condition
Take photos and video during your move-in walkthrough and again at move-out. Email the files to yourself and your landlord so there is a dated record. The more evidence you have, the harder it is to be blamed for pre-existing damage.
Understand allowable deductions
- Unpaid rent or fees owed under the lease
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning costs to return the unit to its move-in condition
- Restoration of unauthorized alterations
Normal wear and tear — like faded paint, minor carpet wear, or small nail holes from pictures — cannot typically be deducted.
Request a final walkthrough
Ask for a move-out inspection while you are still in the unit. This gives you a chance to fix issues before your landlord deducts for them. Get any agreed-upon deductions in writing.
If your deposit is late or unfairly deducted
- Send a polite written request with your forwarding address and a deadline
- Review local laws on deposit return timelines
- Dispute itemized deductions in writing with photos as evidence
- If ignored, small claims court is often designed for tenant-landlord disputes