Why is Sarah worried?

M: Hello.
W: Hello, John. This is Florence Richardson. I’m sorry to phone you at this hour, hat I’m experiencing a sticky issue, and I can’t think of anyone to get advice from besides you.
M: What’s up?
W: Well, I moved to my present apartment a couple months ago and now I’m thinking of deferring my studies and planning to return to my parents’ place next month. Today, I gave notice to my landlord but he said he’s unable to give my deposit back since I have to stay a minimum of six months.
M: Are you giving him a-month-in-advance notice to move?
W: Yes, that’s exactly what I did today. In the tenancy agreement, that’s the timeframe requested to notify the landlord.
M: Yes, that’s the usual practice. Well, in the tenancy agreement, did it state that there’s a minimum of six months stay or the deposit would be forfeited?
W: Not that I could remember.
M: Well, I have never heard of it either. It could be the landlord is trying to intimidate you. Perhaps you should pull your contract out and have a word with him.
W: Yes, that’s exactly what I’m thinking of.
M: If the contract does not state the time frame, then he shouldn’t impose it himself.
W: You are right, John. You just confirmed my reasoning.
M: Look, Sarah, I’ll go with you to see the landlord tomorrow and if he still insists on forfeiting your deposit, we’ll go to the small claim court to get your money back.
W: Thanks, John, I really appreciate that.