In this video, Edrin Shamtob, a licensed California attorney specializing in real estate law at SNS Law Group, explains what can and cannot be deducted from a tenant’s security deposit once the lease term ends.

For more information about California law for security deposit deductions, contact our office at (424) 220-2052

Transcript: 

Have you ever wondered what you can and can’t deduct from your tenant’s security deposit once the tenancy ends?

Hi, my name is Edrin Shamtob, and I’m a licensed California attorney with more than a decade of experience in the real estate law field.

What Can a Landlord Deduct from the Security Deposit in California?

During my career, I’ve assisted thousands of property owners in understanding their rights and obligations regarding security deposits. Security deposits are highly regulated by the state of California, and landlords are allowed to deduct for only a few specific reasons.

Back Rent

First, if your tenant owes you any back rent that accumulated during their tenancy, you’re allowed to deduct that back rent from the tenant’s deposit.

Repairs to the Property

Second, the security deposit can be used to pay for repairs to the property or any damage done to the property by the tenant that goes beyond normal wear and tear.

Cleaning the Unit

Third, you can utilize the security deposit to clean the property after your tenant vacates and to prep the property for an incoming tenant.

Security Deposit Itemization Is Required

Finally, landlords are required to provide the tenant with a security deposit itemization within 21 days after the tenant vacates the property. The itemization must describe how the security deposit is being applied by the landlord.

Failing to provide a timely itemization means that you will have to return the entire security deposit to your tenant without any deductions.

Contact Us Regarding Security Deposit Deductions

If you need assistance handling tenant security deposits, feel free to give us a call. We’d be happy to help.