A landlord may generally seek to deduct genuine rent arrears, unpaid bills that are the tenant’s responsibility, and the reasonable cost of repairing damage beyond normal wear and tear or cleaning left-needed beyond the agreed standard. Deductions should reflect the landlord’s actual loss, not ordinary ageing or improvements, and the tenant should receive an explanation with supporting evidence such as invoices or photographs. The tenancy agreement and the condition of the property at the start and end are important. If the deduction is disputed, the RTB can assess the evidence through its dispute resolution process; consider legal advice for complex cases.