California deposit deadline.
21
days to return your deposit (calendar days after you move out).
What they must send
Itemized statement; receipts or invoices required unless repairs and cleaning total $125 or less; landlord photo rules for move-outs since Apr 1 2025 and move-ins since Jul 1 2025.
If they get it wrong
Bad-faith retention: up to 2x the deposit in addition to actual damages.
California landlords have to itemize, and for charges over $125 they generally need receipts or estimates. Since 2025 there are added photo rules for move-in and move-out.
Late or overcharged?
- Count 21 days from move-out. Free checker
- Ask for receipts for every charge.
- Send a letter that cites Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5.
- Still nothing? Small claims court. No lawyer needed.
City rules can add to state rules.
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Letter template and general info, not legal advice. We're not a law firm.
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