When must my landlord return my security deposit?

No later than twenty-one calendar days (i.e., three weeks) after the tenant has moved out of the rental unit. See Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(g)(1).On or before this date, the landlord must provide the tenant, by personal delivery, by first-class mail, or by email (if the landlord and tenant agree to email) (1) a copy of an itemized statement indicating the basis for, and the amount of, any security deposit received and the disposition of the security deposit, and (2) any remaining portion of the security deposit. See id.The itemized statement must also include copies of documents showing charges incurred and deducted by the landlord to repair or clean the premises. See § 1950.5(g)(2).If the landlord or landlord’s employee did the work, the itemized statement must describe the work performed, including time spent and the reasonable hourly rate charged. See § 1950.5(g)(2)(A).If the landlord or landlord’s employee did not do the work, the landlord must provide the tenant a copy of the bill, invoice, or receipt supplied by the person or entity performing the work. See § 1950.5(g)(2)(B).If a deduction is made for materials or supplies, the landlord must provide a copy of the bill, invoice, or receipt. See § 1950.5(g)(2)(C).The parties can agree to have the landlord deposit any remaining portion of the security deposit electronically to a bank account or other financial institution designated by the tenant. See § 1950.5(g)(1).Otherwise, the tenant should provide the landlord with a mailing address so that a check can be mailed. If the tenant has not provided a new mailing address, the landlord must use the address of the vacated rental unit.See § 1950.5(g)(6).

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