Index

California Security Deposit Limits (Civil Code 1950.5)

Summary

Limits the amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit and establishes strict timelines for its return after a tenant moves out.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Tenants cannot be charged more than one month's rent for a security deposit (as of July 2024).
  • 02.
    Tenants must receive their deposit or an itemized list of deductions within 21 days of vacating.
  • 03.
    Tenants have the right to a walk-through inspection before moving out to identify needed repairs.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Statutory damages of up to twice the amount of the deposit for bad faith retention.
  • 02.
    Requirement to pay the full deposit amount back to the tenant if timelines are missed.

Verified Citations

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