How long does the landlord have to return my deposit?

It depends on your state. Security-deposit deadlines, what starts them (for example, moving out or giving a forwarding address), and what happens when a landlord misses one are set by each state's law, and some cities add their own rules. Your state legislature's website publishes its code. The letter does not state a deadline for you; it cites the statute you enter, if any.

What is "ordinary wear and tear" and why does it matter?

"Ordinary wear and tear" usually means the gradual deterioration of a unit from normal use — flattened carpet or faded paint, as opposed to a rip or crayon on the wall. Whether and how your state's law limits deductions for it is a question for that law. The letter lets you dispute any deduction you consider wear and tear.

Does the letter demand a statutory penalty?

Only if you choose that option, and then only in general terms: it asks for any additional amount that the statute you cited (or applicable law) provides when a deposit is wrongfully withheld. It names no amount or multiplier, because those differ by state. Check your state's law before you rely on one.

Should I send it certified mail?

Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested gives you a record of delivery. Without one, the landlord can dispute receiving the letter, including when your 14-day response window began. Mail to the address printed on the lease.

What if the landlord ignores the letter?

The letter reserves the right to file in small claims; whether to file is your decision. Small-claims limits, fees and timelines differ by state and court — your local court's website lists them. If you file, the certified-mail receipt, move-in / move-out photos, the lease, and any itemization the landlord sent are the records the letter refers to.

Landlord-tenant overview

Security-deposit demand

Get your deposit back.

The wizard builds a written demand for your deposit — free. It lists the deductions you dispute, asks for receipts, and reserves your options. State deposit laws differ, so the letter states no deadline or penalty of its own; it cites only the statute you enter.

1You + unit
2Landlord + deposit
3Disputes
4Demands
5Review

Your full name *

Former unit address (where you lived) *

Your forwarding address (below) is where the deposit gets sent — make sure it's current.

Forwarding street address *

Forwarding city, state, ZIP *

Phone (optional)

Email (optional)

Still in the unit?

Repair-demand letter — free

If conditions are still uninhabitable and you haven't moved out yet, the repair-demand letter is the right move first. Documenting the demand is what preserves rent-abatement and constructive-eviction remedies later.

Open repair demand