Under which circumstance can a security deposit be withheld by a landlord?

Under which circumstance can a security deposit be withheld by a landlord?

• A. Failure to pay last month's rent
• B. Intentional damages
• C. Pet damage only
• D. Cosmetic changes to the property

Answer: (B)

Withholding a security deposit is typically permissible under circumstances that align with the terms of the lease agreement and the law. The correct answer highlights that a landlord can retain a security deposit in the case of intentional damages. Such damages refer to any harm inflicted on the property that goes beyond normal wear and tear, demonstrating a disregard for the property's upkeep. In this context, intentional damages might include acts such as vandalism or severe alterations that compromise the integrity and value of the property. Since these damages result from a tenant's intentional actions, landlords are justified in claiming the costs of repairs from the security deposit to restore the property to its original condition. Other options may not fulfill the necessary criteria for withholding a security deposit. For instance, failure to pay the last month's rent does not legally justify retaining the security deposit, as it is a separate financial obligation. Pet damage would only justify withholding if it is severe and intentional, failing to encompass all forms of damage. Cosmetic changes generally do not warrant the withholding of funds unless they significantly alter the property’s value or safety, again emphasizing intentional damage. Therefore, the option regarding intentional damages is aligned with a landlord's rights under typical rental agreements and state regulations.

Withholding a security deposit is typically permissible under circumstances that align with the terms of the lease agreement and the law. The correct answer highlights that a landlord can retain a security deposit in the case of intentional damages. Such damages refer to any harm inflicted on the property that goes beyond normal wear and tear, demonstrating a disregard for the property's upkeep.

In this context, intentional damages might include acts such as vandalism or severe alterations that compromise the integrity and value of the property. Since these damages result from a tenant's intentional actions, landlords are justified in claiming the costs of repairs from the security deposit to restore the property to its original condition.

Other options may not fulfill the necessary criteria for withholding a security deposit. For instance, failure to pay the last month's rent does not legally justify retaining the security deposit, as it is a separate financial obligation. Pet damage would only justify withholding if it is severe and intentional, failing to encompass all forms of damage. Cosmetic changes generally do not warrant the withholding of funds unless they significantly alter the property’s value or safety, again emphasizing intentional damage. Therefore, the option regarding intentional damages is aligned with a landlord's rights under typical rental agreements and state regulations.