Using Security Deposit to Pay Rent

During the tenancy, a tenant can ask you to use the security deposit as rent, but it is up to you whether to agree to the request. If you agree to use the security deposit as rent, there is a risk that there will not be a fund to cover any damages when the tenancy is over. You may then be in the position of having to request extra money from the tenant or having to sue him to pay for the damages.

January 2006