California Real Estate SalespersonPractice of Real Estate and DisclosuresMedium
A tenant vacates a rental unit on June 30 after giving proper notice. Under California law, by what date must the landlord return the security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions?
- AJuly 21 (within 21 calendar days after tenant vacates)
- BAugust 14 (within 45 calendar days after tenant vacates)
- CJune 30, the same day the tenant moves out
- DJuly 30 (within 30 calendar days after tenant vacates)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. July 21 (within 21 calendar days after tenant vacates)
California Civil Code Section 1950.5 requires landlords to return the security deposit, or provide an itemized statement with any deductions, within 21 calendar days after the tenant vacates the property.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 45 days is too long and not the legal requirement in California.
- C. There is no requirement to return the deposit on the same day of move-out.
- D. 30 days is not the California standard; it's 21 days.
Security Deposit Return Deadline
California landlords must return a tenant's security deposit or provide an itemized deduction statement within 21 calendar days after the tenant moves out.
- 21-day deadline applies statewide under Civil Code 1950.5
- Landlord must provide receipts for deductions over $125
- Tenant may request pre-move-out inspection to cure issues in advance
Memory trick: 21 days to settle the security deposit debate