Non-Refundable Deposit = FEE (If it's simply something you pay) (move, apartment, better)

[Juxtaposition109]

If a deposit by definition is something that you put down, "Just in case" something happens or to hold a place then why do people in apartment adds always say they are wanting a non-refundable deposit? Is there such a thing by definition? Why not just call it a fee? At least w/ a fee you know you aren't getting it back. Doesn't the non-refundable defeat the purpose of the word deposit? If it can be applied towards rent or other fees later ok but if it's simply something you have to pay why not just call it a fee????????

[Poison_Ivy]

I totally agree. So much of any and all of the so called "deposits" that are required to move into a place become collateral damage when you decide to move out and are never refunded. They really would just be better off calling them "our outrageous fees" because that is all they narrow down to in reality.