The itemization requirement
Yes. When a landlord keeps any part of your security deposit, California law generally requires them to give you a written, itemized statement explaining each deduction — you are entitled to know exactly what you were charged for.
Within the required time after you move out, the landlord must send an itemized statement listing each deduction and its amount, along with any remaining deposit. For repair or cleaning deductions above a certain dollar amount, the landlord generally must also include supporting documents, such as receipts or invoices, or estimates where work is not yet done, so you can see the charges are real.
A vague claim like "cleaning and repairs" with no breakdown or documentation does not meet this standard. The itemization requirement exists so landlords cannot keep your money without accounting for it.
If your landlord kept part of your deposit without a proper itemized statement or supporting receipts, that failure can work in your favor. Keep whatever the landlord sent you. A free, confidential review can help you understand whether the deductions and documentation met the law's requirements.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.