How can a tenant protect their security deposit?

Tenants in California can protect their security deposit by ensuring they uphold their rental agreement. This includes paying rent on time, notifying the landlord of any maintenance needs, not damaging the property, and not violating any local laws or ordinances. Tenants should also document the condition of the property upon move-in by taking pictures or video and submitting it to the landlord in writing. This will provide evidence of the condition of the property when the tenant moved in and can be used to help prove that damage to the property was not caused by the tenant when they move out. Before the tenancy ends, tenants should also schedule a move-out inspection with the landlord. This allows the landlord to inspect the property and document the condition of the property when the tenant moves out. If the tenant agrees with the findings, they can sign the inspection report and have it as proof of the condition of the property at the end of the tenancy. Finally, tenants should make sure they receive a full return of their security deposit within 21 days of the end of the tenancy. If the landlord does not refund the full amount of the security deposit, the tenant should contact them in writing and request an explanation for the deductions. If the landlord does not provide a satisfactory response, the tenant may have to take legal action to obtain their full security deposit refund.

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How can a tenant protect their security deposit?

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