Delaware deposit law, in plain English.

What your landlord has to do with your deposit after you move out. Each rule links to the official text.

• 20 days.

  Your landlord has 20 days after your lease ends to return your deposit, or send an itemized list of damages with the difference.

  § 5514(e), (f)

• No list means no damages.

  If they don't send the list in time, the law treats it as their admission that you owe nothing for damage.

  § 5514(f)

• Off limits.

  Normal wear and tear, or anything painting and ordinary cleaning fix.

  § 5514(c)(1)

• Object within 10 days.

  If you accept a partial refund without objecting in writing within 10 days, it can count as agreeing.

  § 5514(f)

• Double what they kept.

  Missing the 20 days can cost them double the amount wrongly kept. Give a forwarding address in writing.

  § 5514(g), (h)

Checked against the official text on October 19, 2026. General information, not legal advice. Cities can add their own rules.