Updated 2026 · California Law
Security Deposit Laws in Los Angeles, California (2026)
Under Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5, landlords in Los Angeles must return your security deposit within 21 days after you vacate the unit. Failure to comply entitles you to the deposit plus statutory penalties. This page is a plain-language reference to California's security deposit statute as it applies to Los Angeles renters. Units built before 1978 and covered by the LA Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) are subject to additional deposit protections, including mandatory annual interest payments.
21
Days to Return
Up to 2× deposit
Penalty
$10,000
Small Claims Limit
California Security Deposit Statute — Quick Reference
Statute
Return Deadline
21 days after tenancy ends — Must provide itemization even if keeping full deposit
Penalty
If your landlord acts in bad faith, you can recover up to twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus actual damages
Small Claims Limit
$10,000
Filing Fee
$30–$75
The 21-Day Return Deadline in Detail
Under Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5, a Los Angeles landlord has 21 calendar days after the tenancy ends to return your security deposit. If the landlord makes deductions, they must provide a written, itemized statement of each deduction along with copies of receipts, invoices, or estimates supporting each charge.
Important: Must provide itemization even if keeping full deposit. The clock starts when the tenancy legally terminates — typically your move-out date or lease end date, whichever is later. To protect your rights, provide your forwarding address in writing on or before your move-out date.
Penalty for Violation
California Statutory Penalty
If your landlord acts in bad faith, you can recover up to twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus actual damages
Cite: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5
Up to 2x the deposit for bad faith withholding. To recover these penalties, file in small claims court in Los Angeles's jurisdiction. You may also send a formal demand letter first — many landlords return deposits once they receive a written legal demand citing the applicable statute.
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Small Claims Court — California
How to find your court
File at the Superior Court in the county where the rental property is located or where the landlord lives.
California court finder →Los Angeles Security Deposit FAQ
How long does a Los Angeles landlord have to return my security deposit?
21 calendar days after you vacate the unit. Under Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(g), your landlord must mail or hand-deliver the deposit (or the balance remaining after deductions) together with an itemized written statement and copies of receipts for cleaning and repair costs. This 21-day window is firm regardless of whether deductions are made.
What is the penalty for bad faith withholding of a deposit in California?
Under Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(l), a landlord who retains a deposit in bad faith is liable for up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld, in addition to the actual amount of the deposit. California courts have found bad faith where landlords fabricated charges, inflated invoices, or simply failed to return the deposit without explanation.
What is the maximum security deposit a Los Angeles landlord can charge?
As of July 1, 2024, California law (AB 12) caps security deposits at 1 month's rent for most landlords, regardless of whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished. Small landlords who own no more than 2 residential properties with 4 or fewer units total may still charge up to 2 months' rent. This applies throughout Los Angeles.
Does my Los Angeles landlord have to pay interest on my security deposit?
Not under California state law for most units. However, if your unit is covered by the LA Rent Stabilization Ordinance and your landlord has held your deposit for one year or more, the RSO requires annual interest payments at a rate set by the LA Housing Department. Check your unit's RSO status at housing.lacity.org.
How do I sue my Los Angeles landlord in small claims court for my deposit?
File at the LA Superior Court Small Claims Division. The Stanley Mosk Courthouse (111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles) handles many central LA cases. The maximum claim is $10,000; filing fees range from $30–$75 depending on the amount. Attorneys are not allowed to represent parties in California small claims court.
Related Resources
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This page is a general legal reference for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Security deposit laws may change; always verify the current statute before taking action. Full disclaimer →