How does a California tenant dispute a deposit deduction?

Step 1: write a demand letter to the landlord (certified mail, return receipt) requesting the deducted amount, citing Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5(h)(1) and any specific deductions disputed. Step 2: if the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time (typically 14-30 days), file a small-claims action in the county where the property is located. Filing fees range $30-$100. Step 3: at the hearing, present the move-in checklist, photos, lease, deposit receipt, and the landlord's itemized statement. Up to twice the wrongfully withheld amount if the court finds bad faith. Attorney fees also recoverable. Many California tenants prevail simply because the landlord failed to itemize within the statutory deadline.

Source: Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5(h)(1)