A lot of people in this thread are dead wrong. Nail holes and painting are wear and tear and they definitely can’t be charged to the tenant. Also, cleaning, unless it’s excessively dirty, is once again wear and tear and is the responsibility of the landlord.

Additionally, in New Jersey, if a security deposit isn’t returned within 14 days, the landlord is suppose to give DOUBLE the amount back to the tenant.

You can go to small claims court but it’s probably not worth your time or energy.

This is why, in this state, I will usually just not pay the last months rent and tell the landlord to use the security deposit ok it.