My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: California.

We put a holding deposit down on a specific unit in a large complex after received notice that our security cleared. Today, we were notified that the current tenant wishes to renew their lease so we have to move into a less desirable unit. They told me that this is California law. I can’t imagine that is true, as it totally dismisses the purpose of the holding deposit.

I would love to be better informed before I communicate with the renting office again. Thank you in advance for any insight you can provide.