Alabama Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Ala. Code §35-9A-201 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 60 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and costs of re-renting if tenant broke the lease. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that results from the intended use of the dwelling, including breakage or malfunction due to age or normal use.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Ala. Code §35-9A-201(b).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 1 month rent
- Itemization required: Within 60 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $6,000
Additional Protections
- Landlord must return deposit within 60 days of termination and delivery of possession
- Landlord must provide itemized list of deductions
What Your Alabama Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Alabama's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Ala. Code §35-9A-201 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Alabama law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that results from the intended use of the dwelling, including breakage or malfunction due to age or normal...
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Alabama Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Alabama?
Under Ala. Code §35-9A-201, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 60 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Alabama landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Alabama, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and costs of re-renting if tenant broke the lease. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Alabama?
In Alabama: Deterioration that results from the intended use of the dwelling, including breakage or malfunction due to age or normal use. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Alabama landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Ala. Code §35-9A-201(b). You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Alabama?
Yes. Alabama small claims court handles cases up to $6,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Alabama?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Alabama-specific dispute letter citing Ala. Code §35-9A-201 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
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