California Security Deposit Rules (2026)
CA caps deposits at 2× monthly rent (unfurnished) or 3× (furnished). 21 days to return + itemize. Failure = forfeit + 2× damages.
Statute: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5
Stop tracking security deposit rules by hand
Proprietio handles security deposit rules automatically — deadlines, notices, and state-aware lease terms built into rent collection, leases, and maintenance. One flat plan, all features included.
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Maximum deposit
Unfurnished: 2 months' rent. Furnished: 3 months' rent. SB 567 (2024) further capped this at 1 month for landlords owning <2 properties.
Allowed deductions
Unpaid rent, repair of damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning to return unit to move-in cleanliness level, restoration of furnishings (if furnished and itemized in lease).
NOT allowed
Painting (unless tenant damaged walls beyond normal). Carpet replacement for normal wear. Routine cleaning. Pre-existing damage.
Return deadline
21 days after move-out. Send check + itemized statement. For deductions over $125, include receipts/estimates.
Penalties for non-compliance
Bad-faith withholding = forfeit deposit + up to 2× damages + attorney fees. Tenant can sue in small claims up to $12,500.
Stop tracking California deposit deadlines manually.
Proprietio handles California-specific deposit returns automatically. State-compliant itemization, on-time, every move-out.
- Auto-tracks the 21-day return deadline mandated by Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5
- Caps deposits at SB 567 limits (1× rent for landlords with ≤2 properties)
- Generates itemized statements with required receipts for deductions over $125
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