Common use of Return of the Security Deposit Clause in Contracts

Return of the Security Deposit. This Security Deposit may be used by the landlord after the tenancy has ended to repair damage to the residence and for the actual costs of unpaid rent, storing and disposing of unclaimed property, or utility charges the tenant owes to the landlord. The Security Deposit cannot be used to pay for routine cleaning or painting made necessary by normal wear and tear. The landlord will return the entire Security Deposit to the tenant at the end of the lease if the following conditions are met: (1) The apartment is in good condition except for (a) normal wear and tear or (b) damage not caused by the tenant, the tenant’s family, invitees or guests; (2) The tenant does not owe any rent or utility charges which the tenant was required to pay directly to the landlord; and (3) The tenant has not caused the landlord expenses for storage and disposing of unclaimed property. If the landlord deducts money from the tenant’s Security Deposit, the landlord will provide the tenant a list of the items for which the tenant is being charged and return to the tenant the balance of the Security Deposit. The landlord will return the Security Deposit, or the remaining balance, to the tenant no more than thirty (30) days after the tenancy ends.