Security Deposits

Protect Your Security Deposit When You Move In

Record the condition of the property to safeguard your security deposit.

Get Your Security Deposit Back

Know your rights when it comes to getting your deposit back in full and on time.

Chart: Deadline for Returning Security Deposits, State-by-State

State deadlines for itemizing and returning tenants' security deposits.

Deducting Cleaning and Repairs 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.

How Your Landlord's Bankruptcy or Property Sale Affects Your Deposit

Here's what happens to your deposit if your landlord goes bankrupt or sells your rental property

How to Negotiate or Mediate a Landlord-Tenant Dispute

Why negotiation and mediation are good ways to resolve landlord-tenant disputes

Sample Demand Letter for Return of Security Deposit

How a demand letter can help get your security deposit back

Security Deposit Limits and Uses

State rules on security deposit uses and dollar limits

Chart: Security Deposit Limits, State by State

Learn how much security deposit a landlord can charge in your state.

Security Deposit Limits and Deadlines in Your State

Learn about your state's laws.

Filing a Security Deposit Lawsuit in California Small Claims Court

Here’s an overview of the steps involved with filing a security deposit lawsuit in California.

Filing a Security Deposit Lawsuit in Florida Small Claims Court

Here’s an overview of the steps involved with filing a security deposit lawsuit in Florida.

Filing a Security Deposit Lawsuit in New Jersey Small Claims Court

Here’s an overview of the steps involved with filing a security deposit lawsuit in New Jersey.

Filing a Security Deposit Lawsuit in New York Small Claims Court

Here’s an overview of the steps involved with filing a security deposit lawsuit in New York.

Filing a Security Deposit Lawsuit in Pennsylvania Justice Court

Here’s an overview of the steps involved with filing a security deposit lawsuit in Pennsylvania.

Filing a Security Deposit Lawsuit in Texas Justice Court

Here’s an overview of the steps involved with filing a security deposit lawsuit in Texas.

Landlord-Tenant Statutes, State-by-State

To help you research your state laws, here's a listing of landlord-tenant codes for every state.

State Security Deposit Statutes

Here are the statutes that govern a landlord’s collection and return of security deposits.