California security deposit return checklist

Print this out and check each box as you close out a move-out. Following these steps keeps you inside California law and out of small-claims court.

• Offer a pre-move-out inspection.

  Give the tenant the chance to request an initial walkthrough before they move out, so they can fix issues themselves first.

• Start the 21-day clock at move-out.

  You must return the deposit — or an itemized statement of deductions — within 21 calendar days.

• Write an itemized statement.

  List each deduction separately with a clear, specific reason, as required by Civil Code §1950.5.

• Attach receipts and invoices.

  For deductions, include the itemized statement and attach receipts or invoices as required by §1950.5.

• Take before/after photos.

  Newer photo-documentation requirements apply to tenancies — see the full photo-documentation guide before you rely on photos alone.

• Double-check before you withhold anything.

  Bad-faith retention of a deposit risks liability of up to two times the amount wrongfully withheld, on top of actual damages.

For the complete deposit rules, see the security deposit law guide and the photo-documentation requirements guide on Veluna Rent.

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