Security Deposit Not Returned in Idaho: What Can I Do?
This page is for renters in Idaho whose landlord has not returned a security deposit. It covers the return deadline, the list of deductions, and what you can do if the landlord does not pay. It uses Idaho law and the Idaho Attorney General's manual.
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Take part in the move-out inspection. The Idaho Attorney General says both sides should record it in writing and on video or in photos.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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When your lease or rental agreement ends and you give up the rental, your landlord must refund your security deposit. The landlord may keep only amounts needed for the contingencies (possible costs) listed in the deposit arrangement. A security deposit is any money you gave the landlord for something other than rent.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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Your landlord cannot keep any part of your deposit for normal wear and tear (normal use over time). Normal wear and tear is wear from the use the unit is meant for. It leaves out negligence, carelessness, accident, or misuse or abuse by you, your household, or their invitees or guests.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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If you and your landlord did not agree on a time, the landlord must refund your deposit within 21 days. In any event, the refund is due within 30 days after you give up the rental.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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If your landlord sends back less than your full deposit, a signed statement must come with it. It must list the amounts kept and why. It must also list in detail what was spent from the deposit.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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If a tenant gives no proper notice and ends the lease early, the landlord may use the deposit. It may cover the landlord's actual expenses in re-renting the property.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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The Idaho Consumer Protection Act bars a landlord from saying a repair is needed when it is not. Suppose the landlord takes money from your deposit for imaginary repairs, or for items damaged before you moved in. Send the landlord a letter objecting to the list of what was taken.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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Say your landlord has not returned your deposit, or sent a list of what was taken, within 21 days after the lease ends. Send a written demand by certified mail. Keep a copy of the letter. Save texts and emails as well; they are also a record of what you sent.
RenterLaw editorial Idaho Attorney General, Landlord and Tenant Manual (July 2026) Landlord and Tenant Manual, Tenant's Remedies for Obtaining Security Deposit✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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After your landlord receives your demand letter, the landlord has 3 business days from the date the letter is received to return the deposit.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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If the landlord does not return the deposit after your letter, you can file a complaint in small claims court.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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At trial, the judge asks you and the landlord to explain your sides and show evidence. The Attorney General says to bring copies of all communication with the landlord. Bring photos or videos too. Bring witnesses who were with you at the final inspection.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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The Idaho Attorney General says a judge may award 3 times the security deposit if the tenant wins. The judge may add court costs and attorney fees. For example, on an $800 deposit, 3 times is $2,400. You get this money only if you win your case and your landlord pays.
RenterLaw editorial Idaho Attorney General, Landlord and Tenant Manual (July 2026) Landlord and Tenant Manual, Tenant's Remedies for Obtaining Security Deposit✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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If you paid a security deposit and the property changes owners while you rent, the new owner is liable (legally responsible) for refunding it.
✓ Sources checked October 2, 2026
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