Put the deposit amount, refund date and permitted deductions in the contract
Write down how much the deposit is, when it is returned and what deductions are permitted before signing. The landlord cannot invent an unjustified deduction at move-out that the contract did not provide for.
What it takes
Free. Spend an extra ten minutes before signing. Raising the issue face to face with the landlord can be the difficult part.
What you may gain
China's administrative regulation requires rental contracts to specify the deposit amount, return time and circumstances for deduction. Outside the agreed circumstances, a landlord may not deduct without legitimate grounds. Put all three items in writing rather than leaving the reasons for withholding money to the landlord later.
Context & considerations
Photograph and film the property together at move-out, including water, electricity and gas readings, walls and floors. For unjustified withholding, first complain to the housing-rental authority. Small claims may be suitable for modest amounts; see Chapter 8.
Research & references
State Council of China (2025). Housing Rental Regulations, Order No. 812, effective September 15, 2025, Article 10. https://www.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengceku/202507/content_7032956.htm