Questions about renters deposit.....?

Question

I'll be giving my roommate my half of the deposit ($500) on the house we rent real soon.

I don't plan on being her roommate for much longer (I'm hoping to move out in about two months) but I still owe my half of the deposit.

QUESTIONS:

What precautions should I take before I give it to her?

I kinda, sorta trust her, but I'd rather be safe than sorry.

Should I get a receipt?

Also, what should I do when I give her the deposit and then move out?

Does she have a certain amout of time to return my half of the deposit, or must I wait until she moves out of the home as well?

And finally, in California, isn't it true that the deposit does not include normal wear-and-tear?

As long as the house looks exactly the same (or cleaner) than when you first moved in, you should get back all/most of the deposit, right?

I really appreciate any input you may have. THANK YOU! :D

Answer 1

  

  Let me get this straight,you are moving OUT of a house that you were living in.You apparently didn't have the $ for the security deposit when you moved in but now that you are moving out you have the $ for the security deposit.

Let me ask you something,why would you give your room mate $500 dollars to move out?If you think about it that is what your doing,If you move out but give her the $ you will NOT see that $ ever again.

My advice to you is DON'T give her/him any $.