In California, you are entitled to a full return of your security deposit, or an itemized statement of deductions from the deposit within 21 days after you move out of the property. The statement must be either mailed to you at the address you left with your landlord upon moving out, or hand delivered to you. If the landlord uses part of your security deposit to repair the rental unit, you are entitled to a copy of the receipt for such repairs. For more information about your rights as  a tenant, see http://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/landlordbook/sec-deposit.shtml.If you disagree regarding the repairs, inform the  landlord immediately by sending a letter asking for a refund for the amount in dispute. Clearly state the reason you believe any deductions taken from the security deposit are not necessary. If the landlord refuses to return the money to you, suggest that you and the landlord have the dispute settled by a third, neutral party. Finally, if you cannot resolve the dispute using one of these means, you can initiate a lawsuit against your landlord in small claims court. However, you should contact an experienced attorney in your city before you pursue legal action against your landlord.