It's common in both residential and commercial leases for the landlord to require that the tenant pay a security deposit. The security deposit serves as a source of funds for the landlord to resort to in case the tenant breaches the lease agreement or otherwise causes damage to the leased premises. The security deposit is normally paid to and held by the landlord until the lease ends. The amount of the security deposit usually ranges from about one to three months' rent.
Some states limit the amount of security deposit to no more than two months' rent.
Many states have passed laws designed to help the residential tenant collect the security deposit after termination or expiration of the lease. These laws typically provide that the landlord must return the security deposit to the tenant within 30 to 60 days after the lease ends. If the tenant has damaged the leased premises, the landlord may keep part or all of the security deposit to cover the amount of damage. In such a case, the landlord must send an itemized list of damages and deductions to the tenant. Damages to the leased premises don't include normal wear and tear, but may include cleaning and painting.