Move-outCalifornia security deposit return and itemized statement
A tenant moved out. Here is the general rule for returning the deposit or sending an itemized statement, the statute it comes from, and the records to gather.
The general rule, and where to check- Returning a security deposit. Within 21 calendar days after the tenant moves out, the landlord returns the deposit or sends an itemized statement of deductions with the remainder. Receipts or invoices go with the statement unless repairs and cleaning together are $125 or less. A deposit paid electronically is returned electronically to an account the tenant names in writing, unless both agree otherwise. Photos: for tenancies that began on or after July 1, 2025, photos at move-in; since April 1, 2025, photos after move-out and after repairs or cleaning, when deductions are taken. Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5(g), (h) Summary checked 2026-10-17.
- Security deposit limit. For most California rentals, a security deposit (however it is labeled) can be no more than one month's rent. This applies to furnished and unfurnished units. A small landlord (a natural person, an LLC whose members are all natural persons, or a family trust, owning no more than two rental properties with no more than four units in total) can take up to two months' rent, except from a service member. Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5(c) Summary checked 2026-10-17.
General information, not legal advice. Check the source before you act. City ordinances can add rules. Check your city or county housing office.
Have these ready- The move-out date and the deposit amount you hold
- Move-in and move-out photos, and photos after repairs or cleaning
- Each deduction, with a receipt, invoice or estimate
- The tenant's forwarding address, or the account they named in writing for an electronic refund
- Your city's deposit interest rule, if your city has one