rogue49

BTW...in California...there is a "wear & tear" policy for leases.
Meaning...that the OWNER is responsible for "normal" wear & tear of residences.

Unless, there is unusual damage...they should not be charging you for carpet cleaning or painting.
This is part of the re-renting process.
The leasor is only responsible for "abnormal" wear & tear....damages etc.
Nail, or pin holes in the wall from picture hanging are considered "normal"

Unless...you have signed something within your lease that states otherwise,
then you "should" be getting ALL your deposit back as long as you leave it in a clean condition and on good terms.

Please clarify this on your lease, with your landlord,
and make sure of your rights as a renter.

There are many landlords who try to get away with charges & policies,
because of the ignorance of the renters.

Make sure that you have itemized EVERYTHING that is broken, altered, not fixed etc from when you moved in.
Keep a written record of ALL repairs done...either by you or the landlord.
Keep a record of things that haven't been corrected.
That way the landlord can't charge you for their issues.

BTW...if he charges you in the suit...the burden of proof is on him.
and please remember there are certain time limits for submittal of proof.

This is all a lot to go through for $90, and I believe it should be dealt with out-of-court
but it's nice to know for future greater problems that might arise.