Are Your Landlord's Deductions Valid?
Enter what your landlord charged. We'll flag which deductions you can challenge, calculate depreciation overcharges, and tell you how much you could recover.
What you'll get
- ✓Each charge flagged as Challengeable, Likely Valid, or Depends
- ✓Depreciation math using HUD/IRS useful life standards
- ✓Total challengeable amount + next steps to dispute
Example Result
Normal cleaning between tenants is the landlord's responsibility
Item age: 4 yrs | Useful life: 3–5 yrs | 50% depreciated
Fair value: $150.00 · Overcharge: $150.00
You may be able to challenge $450.00 in deductions.
What Counts as Normal Wear and Tear?
Your landlord can only deduct for damage beyond normal use. Here's what typically falls on each side:
Usually Challengeable
- General cleaning
- Carpet wear from foot traffic
- Repainting for minor scuffs
- Small nail holes
Usually Valid
- Pet damage
- Large holes in walls
- Smoke damage / odor
- Unpaid rent
- Unauthorized modifications
Add a Deduction
Enter each charge from your landlord's deposit statement.
No deductions added yet. Start with whatever your landlord charged the most for.
How It Works
Step 1
Add your deductions
Enter each charge from your landlord's itemized deposit statement.
Step 2
Get instant analysis
Each deduction is flagged using HUD/IRS depreciation standards and landlord-tenant law.
Step 3
Take action
See your total challengeable amount and generate a demand letter to send your landlord.
Based on HUD/IRS useful life guidelines and landlord-tenant law principles. Free to use. Not legal advice.
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Understanding Deposit Deductions
Landlords can only deduct from your security deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs specified in your lease. Many common charges — like general cleaning, repainting, or carpet replacement due to normal use — are not valid deductions.
If your landlord has made deductions you believe are unfair, you have the right to dispute them. Start by sending a demand letter, and if that doesn't work, consider small claims court.