Rent paid in advance covers a future rental period, while a deposit is security against unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or other breaches of the tenancy agreement. A deposit is generally refundable at the end of the tenancy, subject to lawful deductions supported by evidence; advance rent is not normally refundable because it pays for the agreed rental period. In most private tenancies, landlords cannot require more than one month’s rent in advance or a deposit exceeding one month’s rent. If there is a disagreement about deductions or repayment, the RTB’s dispute resolution process may decide the matter based on the tenancy’s facts.