Security deposit law · California

California Security Deposit Law: How to Get Your Deposit Back

If you rent in California, the law gives you specific rights when you move out — a deadline for your landlord to return your deposit, rules on deductions, and a path to push back if they don't. Here's exactly how it works, and how to protect yourself.

Return deadline21 days
Governing statuteCal. Civ. Code § 1950.5
Deposit limit1 month of rent
Itemized deductionsRequired
Interest on depositNot required by statute
Last reviewedMay 2026

California-specific rules to know

1-month cap (AB 12, 2024); small-landlord exception allows 2 months. Landlord must take before/after photos for any deductions (eff. 2025).

What California law requires your landlord to do

Under Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5, a California landlord generally must return your deposit within 21 days and provide a written, itemized list of any amounts withheld. They may not deduct for ordinary wear and tear — only for damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent, or other charges the lease and statute allow.

What to do if your landlord won't return your deposit in California

  1. 1. Know your deadline

    In California, the return window is 21 days (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5). Mark the date you moved out and count forward.

  2. 2. Send a written demand

    Email and mail a dated letter requesting your full deposit, referencing the 21-day deadline under Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5. Keep proof of delivery. Renter's Vault generates a California-specific letter with the right statute citation filled in.

  3. 3. Gather your evidence

    Move-in and move-out photos with timestamps and location are the difference between your word and theirs. Attach your photo record and any move-in checklist.

  4. 4. Escalate to small claims

    If the landlord misses the deadline or won't respond, you can file in small claims court. Bring your dated demand letter and photo evidence.

Free California dispute-letter guide

A clear, statute-cited demand letter resolves most deposit disputes without ever going to court. Renter's Vault builds a California letter for you — pre-filled with Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5, your deadline, and your deductions — in three escalating versions (first request, formal demand, and notice of intent to file).

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California security deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in California?

Under Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5, a California landlord must return your security deposit within 21 days after you move out, along with an itemized statement of any deductions.

What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit in California?

Send a written demand letter that cites Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 and the deadline, keep copies of all communication and your move-in/move-out photos, and if that fails you can file in small claims court. Many states allow extra damages when a landlord withholds a deposit in bad faith.

Is there a limit on how much a landlord can charge for a deposit in California?

In California, the statutory deposit limit is: 1 month of rent. Always confirm against the current statute, since limits and exceptions change.

Are there any special deposit rules in California?

Yes. Notable California rules: 1-month cap (AB 12, 2024); small-landlord exception allows 2 months. Landlord must take before/after photos for any deductions (eff. 2025).

This page is general information for tenants, not legal advice, and laws change. Always confirm the current text of Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 or consult a local attorney or tenants' rights organization for your situation. Last reviewed May 2026.