security deposit on rent

[Sarah Jones]

My friend is renting from someone and the way the landlord has it worked out is .. if he wants his deposit money back.. he should find the a new tenant so he actually gets his deposit money from the new tenant.. this way she doesnt really have to do much... whenever anyone wants to move out they have to get their deposit money from the new tenant.. adn she has been doing this for a long time... i was wondering if this is legal if you put it in the contract?

[Mitch Kronowit]

That is completely wrong according to California law. Not sure about other states, but I'm certain most of them will call BS on that as well. The landlord owes the money to the departing tenant, minus legal deductions, not the replacement tenant.