The initial (pre-move-out) inspection
Yes. In California, tenants generally have the right to request an inspection of the unit before they move out — often called an initial or pre-move-out inspection — so you have a chance to fix issues before the landlord makes deposit deductions.
When you request it, the landlord is supposed to inspect the unit, usually a couple of weeks before you leave, and give you an itemized list of things they believe you would be charged for. This gives you the opportunity to clean or repair those specific items yourself before moving out, potentially saving part of your deposit.
The landlord generally must give proper notice of the inspection and cannot use it to add surprise charges later for items that were identified but that you fixed. It is a valuable tool that many tenants do not know they have.
Taking advantage of this inspection — and doing the identified work — can meaningfully protect your deposit. If your landlord denied you this inspection or ignored your request, a free, confidential review can help you understand how that affects your deposit rights.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.