Arkansas Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Ark. Code §18-16-305 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 60 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning to restore premises. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that occurs from the ordinary use of the premises without negligence, carelessness, accident, or misuse.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to deposit amount plus reasonable attorney fees under Ark. Code §18-16-305.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 60 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $5,000
Additional Protections
- Landlord must return deposit or itemized statement within 60 days
- Failure to return may result in liability for deposit plus attorney fees
What Your Arkansas Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Arkansas's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Ark. Code §18-16-305 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 Arkansas law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that occurs from the ordinary use of the premises without negligence, carelessness, accident, or misuse...
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Arkansas Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Arkansas?
Under Ark. Code §18-16-305, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 60 calendar days after termination of tenancy. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Arkansas landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Arkansas, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning to restore premises. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Arkansas?
In Arkansas: Deterioration that occurs from the ordinary use of the premises without negligence, carelessness, accident, or misuse. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Arkansas landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to deposit amount plus reasonable attorney fees under Ark. Code §18-16-305. You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas small claims court handles cases up to $5,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Arkansas?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Arkansas-specific dispute letter citing Ark. Code §18-16-305 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.