What Does a Security Deposit Cover?

As we all know, a security deposit is an amount given to the landlord to guarantee that you will fulfill the terms of the rental agreement and that you will leave the unit in good condition. This can be used as a payment in case the tenant may cause damage to the property. The laws surrounding security deposits vary from state to state, but here are the basics of what a security deposit covers.

1. Damage To The Property

This has been mentioned already but by damage, it is different from the minimal damage. There are extreme damages that could count in excess to the tenant’s security deposit such as broken windows, big holes on the wall, burns on the floor and other similar damages that would not equate to a tenant’s security deposit. 

2. Cleaning Costs

Regular cleaning costs associated with turning over the rental property can’t be taken from the security deposit. However, in case that the property was left with a huge mess, the landlord would be burdened by the cost of cleaning, and therefore is entitled to use the security deposit to cover the expense. 

3. Non-Payment Of Rent

Of course, a landlord will use the security deposit to compensate for any non- payment of the tenant’s monthly due.

4. Unpaid Bills

Unpaid water, electricity and other utility bills may be deducted from the tenant's security deposit. 

5. Tenant Breaks The Lease

If the lease is not yet up and the tenant decides to break it, the landlord can keep the security deposit. However, it will depend on the terms of lease and the applicable laws from state to state. 

Was Your Security Deposit Illegally Withheld? Contact Outerbridge Law

At Outerbridge Law, we have over 15 years of experience with landlord tenant law. If your landlord has illegally withheld your security deposit after your lease expired, you don’t have to take it lying down. Contact Outerbridge Law online today to see if we can help, or give us a call at 877-OUTERBRIDGE.