Deposit rules we use, and where they come from

This is general information, not legal advice. The sources linked below have the full text.

We organize your files. We're not a law firm, and this isn't legal advice. Letter drafts include these summaries word for word; the AI never writes the law part. Checked Oct 18, 2026 against the linked sources. Cities can add their own rules (for example, rent-controlled units), so check yours.

California In letters now

21 days to return the deposit or send an itemized statement (Civ. Code §1950.5)

• Return the deposit, or send an itemized statement of deductions with any balance, within 21 calendar days after move-out.
• Deductions over $125 must come with copies of invoices or receipts (or, for the landlord's own work, a description, time spent and hourly rate).
• Cleaning may only bring the unit back to how clean it was at move-in. Normal wear and tear isn't deductible.
• Since April 1, 2025 the landlord must photograph the unit after you move out (before deductible repairs or cleaning) and again after the work. For tenancies starting on or after July 1, 2025, also at move-in.
• If a deposit is kept in bad faith, a court may award up to 2x the deposit on top of the amount owed. Small claims court takes cases up to $12,500.

Sources: California Civil Code §1950.5 (official text, leginfo.legislature.ca.gov) · California Courts Self-Help Guide: security deposits · Free help: California Courts Self-Help: small claims

Being checked for letters next: New York, Texas, Washington, Florida.

Every other state

• Security deposit rules depend on your state, and sometimes your city. Check your state's attorney general or consumer protection office before you send a letter.

Letter drafts aren't available for these states yet. The evidence packet works in every state; state-specific letter language is being added next. USA.gov: state consumer protection offices