Can a landlord keep my security deposit?
Answer stability
Watching
This topic changes regularly. We're actively monitoring it so you'll know when the answer moves.
Follow this question →The bottom line
Reviewed against multiple sourcesOnly for legitimate reasons like damage or unpaid rent, with state-specific rules. Verify your state's deposit laws.
Why we believe this
AI models agree landlords can typically deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear, but rules on timelines, itemization, and allowable deductions vary significantly by state. Your specific rights depend on local law and your lease.
Supporting evidence
Your state's tenant-rights resources
Deposit return rules and deadlines.
Local legal aid
If a deposit is wrongly withheld.
What could change this answer
- Your state's deposit and timeline rules.
- What counts as normal wear versus damage.
- Your lease terms and move-out documentation.
Track this answer
Run a fresh cross-check across six models and follow this question to know when the answer changes.
Get a live second opinionPremium Monitoring
Turn ChatVerify into a living intelligence dashboard. Track unlimited questions and see what changed on your dashboard.
Consensus Change Alerts
See it on your dashboard when AI confidence shifts on the questions you track.
Follow Unlimited Questions
Track hundreds of stocks, predictions and topics in one watchlist.
Historical Intelligence
View long-term consensus history and replay how answers evolved.
Divergence Detection
See when models stop agreeing with each other.
Explore related questions
FAQs
How long does a landlord have to return it?
Deadlines vary by state. Confirm your state's specific timeline.
Can they charge for normal wear?
Generally no, but the line varies. Document the unit's condition and verify local rules.