Security Deposit Glossary

Terms

• Security deposit

  A security deposit is money a tenant gives a landlord to cover allowed losses tied to the rental, such as unpaid rent, cleaning beyond normal use, or damage. It is not extra rent. When the tenancy ends, the landlord must handle it under the rule that applies to the rental property.

• Normal wear and tear

  Normal wear and tear means ordinary decline from living in a rental in a reasonable way. Faded paint, minor scuffs, and light carpet wear may fit this idea. The exact rule depends on state law and the facts, so a demand letter should describe the condition plainly and avoid overclaiming.

• Itemized statement

  An itemized statement is a written list of deposit deductions. It should explain what the landlord kept and why. Some state rules also require receipts, invoices, or other support. A tenant can ask for the missing detail without making claims that belong on a state-specific page.

• Small claims court

  Small claims court is a simplified court process for disputes below the local claim limit. Tenants often consider it after a demand letter fails. The limit, filing process, and court name depend on the state and county, so generic pages should point readers to the state page.

• Certified mail

  Certified mail is a mailing option that creates delivery records. In a deposit dispute, it can help show that a landlord received a demand letter or that delivery was attempted. It does not make the letter legally correct by itself. The content still needs to match the facts.

• Bad faith

  Bad faith means dishonest or unfair conduct, not a simple mistake. In security deposit disputes, it can involve keeping money without a valid basis or ignoring required steps. The exact effect is state-specific, so generic pages should explain the concept and send readers to state facts.

• Statute of limitations

  A statute of limitations is a deadline for bringing a claim. If it has passed, a court may refuse to hear the dispute. Deposit deadlines vary by claim and location, so this glossary gives the concept only. Check the state page before relying on a timeline.

• Demand letter

  A demand letter is a written request that explains what happened, what the sender wants, and how the recipient can respond. For a security deposit, it should be factual, calm, and tied to records. It is not a lawsuit and it is not legal advice.