How to know if this amount is refundable or not, and should we get this service instead of using a guarantor for us, which is US-based? For context, we are non-US citizens and we are travelers from India, wanted to stay for five months here.
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Rhino security deposit refundable tenants how it works UDR
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Rhino renters insurance security deposit alternative non-US citizens international renters
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UDR apartments security deposit refund policy California San Francisco tenant rights
Here's a full breakdown of your situation:
What You're Looking At
The screenshot shows a standard cash security deposit of $4,448.99 through UDR's portal (powered by Rhino). Rhino already told you: "you are not eligible for Security Deposit Alternative" - meaning the insurance/bond product was denied for you, likely because you have no US credit history or SSN.
Is the $4,448.99 Refundable?
Yes - it is refundable, and California law is very clear about this:
- According to SF.gov: "There is no such thing as a 'non-refundable' security deposit."
- Under California state law, your landlord (UDR) must return your full security deposit within 21 days after you move out, minus only legitimate deductions for:
- Unpaid rent
- Actual damage you caused (beyond normal wear and tear)
- Cleaning costs (only if the unit was left dirty)
- If UDR wrongfully withholds any portion, you can sue them in small claims court and potentially recover double the withheld amount.
So: pay it, get it back when you leave in late October 2026, assuming you leave the unit in good condition.
Should You Use a Guarantor Service Instead?
Since Rhino already denied you the "Security Deposit Alternative," you don't have that choice at this property - UDR has already told you the only path forward is the cash deposit. The guarantor question is moot here unless you are comparing it for a different property.
But for context if it matters elsewhere:
| Option | What you pay | Refundable? | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash Security Deposit (what you have) | $4,448.99 upfront | Yes, after move-out | Low - you get it back |
| Rhino/Jetty Insurance (alternative) | Small monthly fee (~$30-80/mo) | No - fees are non-refundable | You still owe damages if they occur |
| Guarantor service (e.g. The Guarantors, Insurent) | ~17.5% of deposit, one-time | No | Non-US travelers often face the same eligibility issues |
For a 5-month stay specifically: The cash deposit is actually the better deal for you. Here's why:
- Over 5 months, a Rhino-style insurance policy at even $50/month = $250 gone forever
- The cash deposit of $4,448.99 comes back to you intact if you leave cleanly
- Guarantor services like Insurent or The Guarantors typically charge around $775-$800 one-time (17.5% of $4,448.99) - also non-refundable, and they still require some form of income verification
Key Tips as International/Non-US Travelers
- Document everything before move-in - photograph every wall, floor, appliance. This protects your deposit.
- Request a pre-move-out inspection (California law entitles you to one before you leave) so you can fix any issues before they deduct from your deposit.
- Keep the lease and all receipts - UDR must provide an itemized statement within 21 days of move-out, or they forfeit the right to keep any of it.
- Wire transfer record - pay the deposit via a traceable method so you have proof of payment.
Bottom line: Pay the $4,448.99 cash deposit - it is fully refundable under California law, and for a 5-month stay it is financially smarter than any non-refundable alternative.
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