Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

2x Security Deposit of co-tenants

Our landlord recently made 5

roommates equally liable co-tenants

by making us sign the rental

agreement that 2 current tenants

had signed 5 years ago when they

moved in together with a married

couple. The single tenants paid $500

and the married couple paid $1000

security deposit. Since then, a new

tenant moved into the study, and I

moved in the married couple's old

room. I was told to pay $1000 while

the other 4 tenants (new and old)

paid $500. If I have equal liability for

the entire house, shouldn't we all

have equal security deposit for

damage? Thank you in advance for

any advice on equal co-tenancies.


Asked on 8/28/08, 5:06 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert L. Bennett Law offices of Robert L. Bennett

Re: 2x Security Deposit of co-tenants

Security deposits can vary, because of different credit histories. However, it can not be more than two times the rent, unless there is a waterbed (2.5 times) or unless furnished (3 times).

Also, deposit is to cover one of three possibilties: unpaid rent: damage; dirty upon moveout.

You are welcome.

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Answered on 8/29/08, 7:08 am


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