Most landlords will require a security deposit before you move in. However, there are limits on how landlords can collect and use those deposits and rules on how they must be returned to tenants who move out. Read more about your state's rules at the links below or refer to our other article to find your state's security deposit statues.
Protect Your Security Deposit When You Move In
Record the condition of the property to safeguard your security deposit.
Get Your Security Deposit Back
Steps to take before and after you move out to ensure your landlord returns your security deposit.
Chart: Deadline for Returning Security Deposits, State-by-State
State deadlines for itemizing and returning tenants' security deposits.
Deducting Cleaning and Repair Costs From a Security Deposit
Landlords can't deduct the costs of repairing "ordinary wear and tear" from a security deposit. But what qualifies as ordinary wear and tear?
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
What to include in a demand letter when your landlord hasn't returned your security deposit.
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
An overview of how to file a security deposit lawsuit in a New York small claims court.
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
This is the chart you need if you're trying to find your state's landlord-tenant laws.
State Security Deposit Statutes
Here are the statutes that govern a landlord’s collection and return of security deposits.