California has strict rules about tenant security deposits that all residential landlords and property managers must follow. (Civ. Code, § 1950.5.) Knowing the rules can help tenants protect their hard-earned money. Security deposits are refundable. A security deposit belongs to the tenant, but the landlord is allowed to hold on to it until the tenant moves out. If a landlord sells the property, the landlord must either return the deposit or give it to the new owner to hold on to. By…