security deposit

That is ridiculous. Reasonable wear and tear is acceptable. That includes things like scuff marks and standard nail holes from hanging pictures. Unless you've created a major hole in the wall or destroyed something, your landlord should NOT withhold anything.

By the way, landlords are required to repaint a tenant's apartment every three years if requested. Also, it is standard practice to repaint an apartment between tenants--this cost, along with other improvements, is tax deductible. No way he should be charging you for that. He's smoking crack, seriously.

"By the way, landlords are required to repaint a tenant's apartment every three years if requested."

This is only true for rent regulated apartments, no?

That's a good question, actually. I was under the impression that it was for market rentals as well, though have never tried to invoke it myself so am not 100% on that...