Rental Security Deposit Advice

[Drunner97]

If I'm reading it correctly, the OP is being charged a cleaning FEE. The $300 is not being used from the deposit because of wear and tear as stated in the definition above. (difference between wear and tear and cleaning) A landlord may properly deduct from the departing tenant's security deposit to make the rental unit as clean as it was when the tenant moved in. However, in this case the OP left the unit pretty much spotless, therefore he's getting screwed out of $300 for cleaning because it exceeds the "reasonable cost" to clean. He's also getting screwed out of the filter situation. He should have received at least 90% of his security deposit back.

Correct, but typically in California they can't charge you the cleaning fee if the carpet was due to be replaced regardless.

 

[craigster59]

I own 2 rental properties. Whenever a tenant is there 3+ years, you always figure on carpet replacement and repaint, it's just normal wear and tear. Homeowners will tell visitors to remove their shoes to protect carpet, renters not so much.

Holes in walls, clogged plumbing, dirty oven/ appliances, torn window screens, etc, that's another story. Sounds like the landlord is taking you for a ride. Threaten to take him to small claims, he might change his tune. If not, follow through on the threat, you'll win.