What is a security deposit

Any money a landlord takes from a tenant other than the advanced payment for rent. It's also protection for the landlord if the tenant violates the term of the lease agreement

Ecurity deposit is any money a landlord takes from a tenant other than the advance payment of rent. The security deposit serves to protect the landlord if the tenant breaks or violates the terms of the lease or rental agreement. It may be used to cover damage to the property, cleaning, key replacement, or back rent.