Yes, you can. A security deposit is an amount of money that is paid by a tenant and held by a landlord for the term of the lease. This deposit protects a landlord in case a tenant causes damage,etc. The amount of the deposit typically reflected in the lease (and the maximunm amount mat be regulated by state law).If a landlord is keeping money from a security deposit, they must let the tenant know why and how much. Most states require that the notice be in writing and itemized.Note: Normal wear and tear is not an acceptable reason for keeping/deducting from a security deposit.