Q: I moved out of my apartment and throughly cleaned it, but the complex refused to give me my security deposit back

A: Landlords are generally required to return a tenant's security deposit if the apartment is left in the same condition as it was at the beginning of the tenancy, accounting for normal wear and tear. If a landlord claims that the apartment was not cleaned to their standards, they should provide a detailed list of the specific issues and, in many jurisdictions, corresponding receipts or estimates for the cleaning or repair costs. The legality of withholding a security deposit for cleaning reasons depends on the lease agreement and local tenant-landlord laws.

Taking pictures of every room after cleaning was a smart move. These photographs serve as evidence of the apartment's condition when you moved out. If there is a dispute over the security deposit, this evidence can be crucial. You should review your lease agreement and any move-in and move-out checklists or reports that were completed. These documents can help clarify what "standards" were expected and whether the condition of the apartment meets those standards.

If you believe that your security deposit is being unfairly withheld, consider reaching out to a local tenant's rights group for advice. You may also have the option to pursue legal action in small claims court to recover your deposit. Laws vary by location, but many places have specific regulations that protect tenants in these situations, including timelines for returning deposits and requirements for landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions.