Montana Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Mont. Code §70-25-201 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning to restore unit to move-in condition. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that occurs from the ordinary and reasonable use of the premises.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to full deposit return if landlord fails to provide itemized statement within 30 days under Mont. Code §70-25-202.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: No statutory limit
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $7,000
- Walk-through inspection: Tenant has the right to a move-out inspection
Additional Protections
- Landlord must conduct a move-in and move-out inspection
- Tenant entitled to be present at move-out inspection
- Landlord forfeits right to withhold if itemization not provided within 30 days
What Your Montana Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Montana's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Mont. Code §70-25-201 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 Montana law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that occurs from the ordinary and reasonable use of the premises...
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Montana Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Montana?
Under Mont. Code §70-25-201, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 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 Montana landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Montana, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning to restore unit to move-in condition. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Montana?
In Montana: Deterioration that occurs from the ordinary and reasonable use of the premises. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Montana landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to full deposit return if landlord fails to provide itemized statement within 30 days under Mont. Code §70-25-202. You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Montana?
Yes. Montana small claims court handles cases up to $7,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Montana?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Montana-specific dispute letter citing Mont. Code §70-25-201 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.