Collecting and Returning Security Deposits
Most landlords require a security deposit before a tenant moves in and spells out the details in the lease or rental agreement. The law in most states limits the amount of the deposit the landlord can collect, and gives the landlord a deadline for returning the deposit after a tenant moves out.
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Security Deposit Limits and Deadlines in Your State
Learn about your state's laws.
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Deducting Cleaning and Repair Costs From a Security Deposit
Landlords may use security deposits to pay for repairs due to damage or excessive filth, but not for ordinary wear and tear.
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Protect Your Security Deposit When You Move In
Record the condition of the property to safeguard your security deposit.
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How Should a Landlord Prepare For Court?
Find details on what you should do if you're a landlord being sued over a security deposit in small claims court.
More Legal Topics
- Dogs in Rental Housing
- Evicting a Tenant or Ending a Lease
- Landlord Liability
- Landlord's Right to Enter
- Managing Your Landlord Business
- Rental Applications and Tenant Screening
- Rental Repairs and Maintenance
- Signing a Lease or Rental Agreement
- State and Federal Housing Discrimination Laws
- State Landlord-Tenant Laws
- Dogs in Rental Housing
- Evicting a Tenant or Ending a Lease
- Landlord Liability
- Landlord's Right to Enter
- Managing Your Landlord Business
- Rental Applications and Tenant Screening
- Rental Repairs and Maintenance
- Signing a Lease or Rental Agreement
- State and Federal Housing Discrimination Laws
- State Landlord-Tenant Laws
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