Can a landlord keep your deposit for cleaning?

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Told You So

~ Example Receipt ~

Receipt #748D-C858 · OCT 19, 2026

Claim:

A landlord can keep your security deposit to pay for routine cleaning after you move out.

Verdict:

MIXED EVIDENCE

Receipt Strength

84/100

Landlords generally cannot deduct ordinary routine cleaning from a security deposit, but may deduct reasonable cleaning costs when the tenant leaves the unit dirtier than at move-in or requires extraordinary cleaning, depending on local law.

~ Source Ledger ~

Questions and Answers on Tenant Security DepositsOpposes

ncrec.gov · high quality

Open ›

Know Your Rights: Security DepositsSupports

oag.ca.gov · high quality

Open ›

Home Tenants’ Rights and ResponsibilitiesOpposes

datcp.wi.gov · high quality

Open ›

Find Out What Landlords Can Use Security Deposits ForOpposes

mass.gov · high quality

Open ›

~ Both Sides ~

For The Claim

California permits cleaning deductions needed to return the unit to its move-in cleanliness.
North Carolina allows deductions when unusually filthy conditions require extraordinary cleaning.
The specific rule depends on the jurisdiction and the unit’s condition at move-in and move-out.

Against The Claim

North Carolina says routine cleaning and maintenance ordinarily may not be deducted.
Wisconsin bars routine carpet-cleaning deductions based only on normal wear and tear.
Massachusetts excludes routine painting and carpet shampooing caused by ordinary use.

Bottom Line

The claim is too broad. A landlord may sometimes deduct reasonable cleaning costs for tenant-caused excess dirt or restoration to the move-in condition, but ordinary turnover cleaning is generally not chargeable as a routine deduction.

~ What We Couldn't Find ~

Security-deposit rules vary by jurisdiction, and this conclusion is not a substitute for checking the law where the rental is located. Researched by AI. Sources linked. Verify independently.

Receipt #748D-C858

PrintedOCT 19, 2026

TypeStandard

Sources4

TYS-748D-C858

Researched by AI · Sources Linked · Verify Independently

General information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state and by the details of your situation — check your local law or talk to a professional before acting on it.

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