Should I Use Security Deposit to cover late rent FEES?

[Charlie Moore]

- Should I keep the whole security deposit if they have violations in the lease and continue late rent?

[Nathan Gesner]

You should never apply the security deposit towards any charges until the lease is terminated and the tenant has completely vacated.

Once they are out, you apply it based on your policy of priorities. In my case, I apply it to unpaid utilities, cleaning and repairs, unpaid rent, and then any additional fees.

If it's a property I'm managing for someone else, I pay my management fee first, then I apply it towards the charges as listed above.