California security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties
Quick answer
In California, a landlord has 21 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5). Under California law, a court can award up to twice the deposit on top of actual damages for bad-faith withholding.
Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.
21
days for a California landlord to return the deposit or itemize deductions
The deadline
The landlord must return the deposit, with an itemized statement of any deductions, within 21 days after the tenant moves out.
What the landlord must send you
An itemized statement of deductions. For repair or cleaning deductions over $125, copies of the bills, invoices or receipts.
Penalty for wrongful withholding
If a landlord keeps a deposit in bad faith, a court may award statutory damages of up to twice the amount of the deposit, in addition to actual damages (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(l)).
Read the law
Summary checked against the statute on October 29, 2026. Not legal advice; laws change, so confirm with the source before relying on it.
California security deposit FAQ
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in California?
The landlord must return the deposit, with an itemized statement of any deductions, within 21 days after the tenant moves out.
What must a California landlord send when keeping part of the deposit?
An itemized statement of deductions. For repair or cleaning deductions over $125, copies of the bills, invoices or receipts.
What is the penalty for wrongfully keeping a security deposit in California?
If a landlord keeps a deposit in bad faith, a court may award statutory damages of up to twice the amount of the deposit, in addition to actual damages (Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(l)).
How do I get my security deposit back in California?
Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 21 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 and sets a payment date. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can file in small claims court in the county where the rental is located.
Related guides
- How to get your security deposit back from a landlord
- Security deposit demand letter: what to include and how to send it
- Normal wear and tear vs. damage: what a landlord can deduct
- Suing a landlord in small claims court for a security deposit
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