How much can my landlord charge for a security deposit in California?

What the Law Says

California law strictly limits how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit and sets clear rules for its return.

The amount a landlord may collect as a security deposit depends on whether the rental unit is furnished. For unfurnished units, the maximum is two months’ rent. For furnished units, it’s three months’ rent.

This limit applies to all residential leases and rentals — including month-to-month tenancies — and covers the total of all deposits (e.g., cleaning, pet, key deposits) combined.

After you move out, your landlord must return your security deposit — or provide an itemized statement showing deductions — within 21 calendar days. Any remaining balance must be mailed or delivered to your last known address.

Statutory Text

Except as provided in Section 1950.6, an owner of residential real property who leases that property may not demand or receive a security deposit, including any payment designated as a security deposit, in an amount exceeding two months’ rent, exclusive of utilities, for an unfurnished dwelling unit.

— Civil Code § 1950.5(c) — Security deposit limits

Statutory Text

For a furnished dwelling unit, the amount shall not exceed three months’ rent, exclusive of utilities.

— Civil Code § 1950.5(c) — Security deposit limits

Statutory Text

Within 21 calendar days after the tenant has vacated the premises, the landlord shall return to the tenant the full amount of the security deposit or provide the tenant with an itemized statement indicating the amounts of any deductions...

— Civil Code § 1950.5(g)(1) — Return timeline and requirements

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