Glossary · HOA & renting
Security deposit (depósito de garantía)
Definition
The security deposit is the sum — usually one month's rent in Panama — the tenant hands over at signing to back damages, missing items, or unpaid utilities, returned at the end of the lease after checking the property against the move-in inventory.
In practice
The refund is the classic dispute, and process solves it: a signed inventory at move-in, a joint inspection at move-out, and a written settlement with clearance on tenant-paid utilities. Under our management, the deposit is documented in the lease and the exit follows a standard checklist — so the overseas owner never referees WhatsApp arguments. The deposit doesn't substitute the last month's rent unless expressly agreed.
Related terms
General information, not legal or tax advice. Every transaction is confirmed with an attorney and accountant.
Term reviewed as of July 2026 · Vaca Group Real Estate, Lic. PN 5904