What is a security deposit, and who does it belong to?

A security deposit is money a renter gives to a landlord as proof of intent and may be used to cover damages caused by the renter. The landlord holds it temporarily and can only keep it for specific reasons like unpaid rent, costs for damages beyond normal wear and tear, excessive cleaning fees (to return the unit to its move-in condition), unpaid utilities, or costs associated with you breaking the lease early. *This is legal information, not individualized legal advice