Rental agreements may require the tenant to pay a deposit or a fee, before moving into the dwelling. Deposits may be called a damage deposit, a security deposit or a cleaning deposit. A deposit is, by definition, refundable if the tenant meets clearly specified conditions. The deposit is the tenant's money which the landlord merely holds. The landlord must return the deposit in whole or in part depending on the tenant's compliance with the contract.
Fees are a charge for some services performed by the landlord.
A fee is not refundable if it is clearly designated as non-refundable. If you are charged a fee for cleaning the carpets after you move out, then don't clean the carpets. Call your landlord and also send written notice in attempt to have your landlord fix it. Remember to save all receipts and show copies to you landlord. Oregon state law prohibits a landlord against retaliating against a tenant by raising the rent, decreasing service or threatening to evict a tenant.