California Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 21 calendar days after tenant vacating the premises.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, repair of damages beyond normal wear and tear (excluding ordinary cleaning), cleaning only to return unit to level of cleanliness at move-in. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration resulting from normal use, including reasonable wear from daily living. Paint fading, carpet wear from foot traffic, and minor scuffs are normal wear and tear. Useful life of materials must be considered..
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to twice the deposit amount for bad faith retention under Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5(l).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent (unfurnished) or 3 months rent (furnished); changes to 1 month effective 7/1/2025
- Itemization required: Within 21 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $10,000
- Walk-through inspection: Tenant has the right to a move-out inspection
Additional Protections
- Tenant entitled to pre-move-out inspection upon request
- Landlord must provide receipts or estimates for repairs over $125
- Landlord must allow tenant to remedy identified deficiencies before final inspection
- Itemized statement must be accompanied by remaining deposit within 21 days
What Your California Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from California's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5 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 California law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration resulting from normal use, including reasonable wear from daily living. Paint fading, carpet wear from foo...
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California Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in California?
Under Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 21 calendar days after tenant vacating the premises. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my California landlord legally take from my deposit?
In California, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, repair of damages beyond normal wear and tear (excluding ordinary cleaning), cleaning only to return unit to level of cleanliness at move-in. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in California?
In California: Deterioration resulting from normal use, including reasonable wear from daily living. Paint fading, carpet wear from foot traffic, and minor scuffs are normal wear and tear. Useful life of materials must be considered.. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my California landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to twice the deposit amount for bad faith retention under Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5(l). You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in California?
Yes. California small claims court handles cases up to $10,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in California?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a California-specific dispute letter citing Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5 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.