Tenant Replyby DinLeje

California · Templates

Template: respond to proposed deposit deductions

Start a calm, item-by-item response without promising an outcome or accepting unsupported charges.

Short answer

State that you do not agree as currently presented, request the missing itemization and evidence, and reserve the detailed response until the complete records arrive.

What to do next

  1. Keep the opening short and factual.
  2. List only the items and records actually missing.
  3. Check the official dispute deadline even while waiting for a reply.

Template: respond to proposed deposit deductions

Subject: Response to proposed deposit deductions

Hello,

I do not agree to the proposed deductions as currently presented. For each item, please provide the amount, the relevant move-in and move-out condition evidence, and the record supporting the cost.

Once I receive the complete itemization, I will compare it with the agreement and condition records and respond to each item.

Kind regards,
[Name]

Evidence to collect

0 / 5

Scope and limits

This is a self-service information page for California renters. It does not review your documents, decide a dispute or replace qualified help for urgent, high-value or complex matters.

Official sources

These official pages are the starting point for this California summary. City rules, property type and dates can change the route.

California Department of Justice

Landlord-tenant issues

Statewide renter protections and official help routes.

Related renter resources

Common questions

Common questions

How should I start a response to proposed deposit deductions?

State that you do not agree as currently presented, request the missing itemization and evidence, and reserve the detailed response until the complete records arrive.

Which records should I collect for “Template: respond to proposed deposit deductions”?

Start with: Lease or tenancy agreement and amendments, Move-in inventory or condition report, Dated photographs or video with room labels, Itemized statement of each deduction or charge, Invoices, receipts or good-faith estimates. Do not share names, addresses or account details publicly.

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