San Francisco Renters
Get Your Security Deposit Back in San Francisco
Your San Francisco landlord has 21 days to return your security deposit after you move out. Know your rights and hold them accountable.
21
Days to return
$3,200
Avg. rent
870K
Population
San Francisco Local Info
SF has strict rent control and tenant protections. Landlords must pay interest on deposits annually. The SF Rent Board provides additional resources for deposit disputes.
Local Ordinance
San Francisco Rent Ordinance
California's 21-day return deadline applies. As of July 1, 2024 (AB 12), deposits are capped at 1 month's rent. SF requires annual interest payments on deposits.
Penalties: 2x deposit for bad faith withholding under California Civil Code § 1950.5. Additional penalties may apply under SF Rent Ordinance.
Read the full ordinance →San Francisco Deposit Rules
Interest Required
Yes
Rate set annually by SF Rent Board
Max Deposit
1 months' rent
Return Deadline
21 days
Penalty
2x deposit for bad faith withholding under California Civil Code § 1950.5. Additional penalties may apply under SF Rent Ordinance.
Get Your Deposit Back in San Francisco: Step by Step
Know the 21-Day California Deadline
Your SF landlord has exactly 21 calendar days from move-out to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions with receipts.
Check Interest Payments
SF landlords must pay annual interest on deposits. If they haven't been paying interest, this strengthens your claim.
Challenge Deductions
Review each deduction against California's strict standards. Normal wear and tear is not deductible. Painting after 2-3 years of tenancy is normal wear.
File a Demand Letter
Reference California Civil Code § 1950.5 and mention the 2x bad faith penalty. Send via certified mail.
Take It to Small Claims
File at SF Superior Court Small Claims. Filing fee is $30-$75. California allows 2x the withheld amount as penalty for bad faith.
Calculate Your San Francisco Deadline
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Local Small Claims Court
Court
San Francisco Superior Court - Small Claims
Address
400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102
Filing Fee
$30-$75
Claims Limit
$10,000
California Security Deposit Law
Return Deadline
21 days after move-out
Penalty for Late Return
If your landlord acts in bad faith, you can recover up to twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus actual damages
San Francisco Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my SF landlord have to return my deposit?
21 days under California law. The landlord must provide an itemized statement of any deductions with receipts.
Does my SF landlord have to pay interest on my deposit?
Yes. SF landlords must pay interest annually at a rate set by the SF Rent Board. This is in addition to California state requirements.
What is the maximum security deposit in San Francisco?
Under California law, the maximum is 2 months' rent for unfurnished units or 3 months' rent for furnished units.
Can my SF landlord deduct for painting?
Only if the walls are damaged beyond normal wear. In California, landlords cannot charge for repainting if the tenant lived there for more than 2-3 years.
Where can I file a deposit complaint in San Francisco?
You can file in SF Superior Court Small Claims Division for up to $10,000. You can also contact the SF Rent Board for assistance.