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One of the biggest frustrations for renters is dealing with security deposit disputes. While deposits are meant to cover legitimate damages beyond normal wear and tear, some landlords unfairly withhold funds for absurd reasons—turning what should be a fair process into a financial headache for tenants.
If you’ve ever felt cheated out of your deposit, you’re not alone. Here are 7 Absurd Reasons Landlords Keep Deposits and How to Fight Back to get the money you rightfully deserve.
1. Charging for “Normal Wear and Tear”
One of the most common and ridiculous reasons landlords withhold deposits is by blaming tenants for normal wear and tear—things that naturally happen with time, no matter how well you maintain the property.
Examples of Normal Wear and Tear (That You Shouldn’t Be Charged For):
- Faded paint or minor scuff marks on walls
- Light carpet wear in high-traffic areas
- Loose doorknobs or handles from regular use
- Small nail holes from hanging pictures
How to Fight Back:
- Know your state’s rental laws: Many states clearly define normal wear and tear vs. actual damage. Check Nolo’s State Landlord-Tenant Laws for specifics in your state.
- Document your move-in and move-out condition: Take time-stamped photos and videos when you move in and out to prove any wear was pre-existing.
- Challenge unfair charges in writing: Send a formal letter citing your state’s tenant laws and demand a detailed breakdown of deductions.
2. Vague or Nonexistent Move-Out Instructions
Some landlords intentionally keep deposit policies unclear, making it easy for them to withhold funds over minor or fabricated issues.
How This Scam Works:
- They don’t provide a checklist of expectations.
- They fail to mention professional cleaning requirements.
- They suddenly claim you didn’t follow move-out procedures properly.
How to Fight Back:
- Request a written move-out checklist before your lease ends.
- Ask about professional cleaning requirements upfront.
- Keep copies of emails and written instructions for proof.
Many states require landlords to provide clear guidelines before withholding deposits, so if your landlord fails to do this, you may have legal grounds to dispute the charges.
3. Charging for Pre-Existing Damage
Another absurd excuse landlords use to keep deposits is blaming tenants for damage that was already there when they moved in.
How This Scam Works:
- You move out and suddenly get billed for carpet stains, cracked tiles, or broken blinds that were there before you even moved in.
- The landlord provides no proof that the damage wasn’t pre-existing.
How to Fight Back:
- Always complete a detailed move-in inspection and submit it to your landlord.
- Take clear, time-stamped photos of the entire unit when you move in.
- Keep a copy of the original condition report as proof of pre-existing issues.
If your landlord refuses to return your deposit due to old damage, provide your move-in photos and inspection checklist as evidence.
4. Unfair Cleaning Fees
Some landlords charge outrageous cleaning fees, even when you leave the unit spotless. They may claim the property wasn’t “professionally cleaned”, even if no such requirement was in your lease.
Signs of an Unfair Cleaning Charge:
- No mention of professional cleaning in your lease agreement.
- You thoroughly cleaned the unit, but they still deducted a cleaning fee.
- The landlord fails to provide receipts for professional cleaning services.
How to Fight Back:
- Check your lease agreement—if professional cleaning wasn’t required, they can’t charge you for it.
- Take time-stamped photos and videos of your cleaned unit before moving out.
- Ask for receipts proving they hired a cleaning service.
If they cannot provide documentation, demand a refund or escalate the dispute.
5. “Damage” That Appears After Move-Out
Some landlords invent damages after you’ve already vacated the unit, making it impossible for you to defend yourself.
How This Scam Works:
- You move out, and the landlord conducts an inspection after you’re gone.
- They claim to find new damages that weren’t documented in your move-out report.
- Since you’re not there to dispute it, they deduct from your deposit.
How to Fight Back:
- Request a move-out inspection while you’re still present.
- Take a video walkthrough of your unit before handing over the keys.
- Ask for a written confirmation that the unit was returned in good condition.
Many states require landlords to conduct inspections with tenants present, so if they refuse, you may have legal grounds to dispute any deductions.
6. Withholding the Deposit Due to a Lease Violation (That Isn’t Real)
Some landlords try to keep deposits by falsely claiming lease violations, such as not giving proper notice, when in reality, you followed all the rules.
Common Fake Lease Violations:
- “You didn’t provide 30/60 days’ notice.” (Even when you did!)
- “You had unauthorized guests or pets.” (When you followed pet rules.)
- “You left items behind.” (Even if minor or insignificant.)
How to Fight Back:
- Keep copies of lease agreements and emails proving you followed all requirements.
- Ask for a written explanation of the alleged lease violation.
- Consult tenant advocacy groups or file a complaint with your state’s housing authority if they refuse to return your deposit unfairly.
7. Delaying Your Refund Indefinitely
Some landlords drag out the deposit refund process for months, hoping tenants give up and move on.
Signs of a Deposit Delay Scam:
- The landlord refuses to give a deadline for returning the deposit.
- They claim to be “waiting for invoices” for alleged repairs.
- They stop responding to calls and emails.
How to Fight Back:
- Know your state’s refund deadline (many states require refunds within 14-30 days).
- Send a formal demand letter via certified mail requesting immediate payment.
- File a small claims lawsuit if they fail to comply.
Most states have strict deadlines for deposit refunds, so if your landlord delays without valid reasons, legal action can force them to pay up.
Final Thoughts: 7 Absurd Reasons Landlords Keep Deposits and How to Fight Back, Know Your Rights and Stand Your Ground
Landlords often count on tenants not knowing their rights, which is why so many renters lose hundreds or even thousands of dollars in unfairly withheld deposits. By documenting everything, understanding tenant laws, and demanding accountability, you can fight back against dishonest practices and ensure you get your deposit returned.
If your landlord is refusing to refund your deposit for absurd reasons, don’t let them get away with it. Educate yourself, keep thorough records, and take legal action if necessary. Your money belongs to you—fight for it!
