Return of a tenant’s security deposit is covered by Civil Code section 1950.5. The security deposit is the property of the tenant, and sums can only be withheld for items described under 1950.5. These items include: 1) to remedy a tenant’s unpaid rent, 2) to repair damage, 3) to clean the unit, and 4) to restore, replace or return personal property. The deposit cannot be used to repair damages for “ordinary wear and tear” that occurred during the tenant’s term, or to repair any damage that pre-existed the tenancy.
