Apartment Deposit Dispute: Your Rights as a Renter
Cleaning fees, vague damage charges, and missing itemizations are the most common deposit disputes. Here's how to push back the right way.
Normal wear and tear
Landlords cannot charge you for normal wear — faded paint, light carpet wear, small nail holes. Only damage beyond normal use is deductible.
Cleaning fees
Most states require landlords to prove a unit was left below 'broom clean' standard before charging cleaning fees. Photos and receipts are required.
Missing itemization
If your landlord deducted from your deposit but didn't send a written itemization with receipts, they may forfeit the right to deduct entirely — depending on your state.
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