Security Deposits in Los Angeles: Get Your Money Back
California puts hard limits on security deposits and gives your landlord a 21 day refund deadline. Los Angeles adds yearly interest for rent stabilized units. This playbook covers the limits, the deadlines, and what to do when your landlord keeps your money.
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Most landlords can charge at most 1 month of rent as a security deposit. A small landlord who owns no more than 2 rental properties with up to 4 units total can charge up to 2 months.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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Your lease cannot label any part of the deposit nonrefundable. That label has no legal effect in California.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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The landlord can deduct only for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear, and needed cleaning. Normal wear and tear is never your bill.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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Before you move out, you can ask for a walk through inspection. The landlord must tell you in writing that you have this right. The inspection shows what to fix so you keep your full deposit.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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The landlord has 21 calendar days after you move out to act. By then you must get your refund plus an itemized list of any deductions.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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If deductions total more than $125, the landlord must send proof. Proof means the repair bills, invoices, or receipts.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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The landlord must photograph the unit after you leave and before any repairs. For tenancies starting July 1, 2025 or later, move in photos are required too. Take your own photos on both days.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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A court can punish a landlord who keeps your deposit dishonestly. The penalty is up to 2 times the deposit, on top of your actual losses.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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You can sue for your deposit in small claims court. You do not need a lawyer there, and the landlord must prove the deductions were fair.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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In a rent stabilized Los Angeles unit, the landlord owes you yearly interest on a deposit held at least 1 year. If the interest goes unpaid, you can sue for it in small claims court.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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Call the Los Angeles Housing Department at 1-866-557-7368 with questions or to file a complaint about a rent stabilized unit.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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Stay Housed LA gives free legal help to renters facing eviction over a deposit dispute or anything else. Call 1-888-694-0040.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles is a free law firm for renters with low income. Call 800-399-4529, apply online, or visit a clinic.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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Not sure where to start? Dial 211 any time for Los Angeles County housing programs and help lines. Help comes in many languages.
✓ Sources checked August 23, 2026
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