How to get your security deposit back

Most of what determines whether you get your full deposit back happens before you ever hand back the keys.

Know your deadline

Most states require a landlord to return your deposit — or an itemized list of deductions — within a set window after you move out, commonly somewhere between 14 and 30 days. Check your lease and local law for the exact number where you live.

Document the condition, both times

Take dated photos or a video walkthrough when you move in and again right before you hand back the keys. This is the single biggest factor in disputes — it’s very hard for either side to argue with timestamped photos.

What can (and can’t) be deducted

Landlords can generally deduct for damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, and cleaning if you leave the unit excessively dirty. They generally cannot deduct for ordinary wear from everyday living.

• Can deduct: broken fixtures, stains or holes beyond minor wear, missing items, unpaid rent or fees owed under the lease
• Usually can’t deduct: faded paint, worn carpet from normal foot traffic, small nail holes from hanging pictures, minor scuffs

Leave it in good shape

A basic clean, patching small nail holes, and returning all sets of keys goes a long way toward a full refund — and gives your landlord less room to argue about “cleaning fees.”

If it doesn’t come back

Send a written demand referencing the deadline in your state’s law. Many states impose a penalty on landlords who withhold a deposit in bad faith — sometimes two or three times the deposit amount — and small claims court is a realistic, low-cost option if it comes to that.