Security Deposit Laws in Arizona
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Arizona?
Under Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 33-1321, a landlord in Arizona has 14 days after you move out to either return your full security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions along with any remaining balance.
Important Arizona-specific details
14 business days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays) after termination and delivery of possession. Tenant must make a written demand for the return. Nonrefundable fees (like cleaning) must be designated as such in writing or they are refundable by default.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline in Arizona?
Missing the deadline has real consequences for landlords in Arizona. Under the statute, the penalty is: Tenant may recover 2x (twice) the amount wrongfully withheld.
In practice, this means if your landlord doesn't return the deposit (or a proper itemized statement) within 14 days, you likely have a strong case in small claims court.
What can the landlord legally deduct from your deposit in Arizona?
Arizona law generally allows landlords to deduct for:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage to the unit beyond normal wear and tear — holes in walls, broken fixtures, stains, pet damage
- Cleaning costs, if the unit is left noticeably dirtier than at move-in
- Breach-of-lease costs, such as early termination fees where legally permitted
Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear — faded paint, worn carpet from regular use, minor scuffs, or small nail holes from hanging pictures.
Calculator: check your deposit situation
Enter your move-out date and deposit amount below to see exactly when your landlord's deadline is — and whether they've already missed it.
Security Deposit Return Calculator
Find out when your landlord must return your deposit and what they're legally allowed to deduct.
What to do if your landlord won't return your deposit in Arizona
- Send a demand letter by certified mail. Cite Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 33-1321 and the amount owed. Keep a copy and the delivery receipt.
- Give the landlord a reasonable response window — typically 7 to 14 days after the demand letter.
- File in small claims court. In most states you can sue for up to $5,000–$10,000 without a lawyer. Filing fees are usually $30–$75 and often recoverable as costs.
- Bring evidence. Lease, move-in and move-out photos, the demand letter, proof of delivery, and any communications with the landlord.
For a complete walkthrough, see our guide: What to Do If Your Landlord Won't Return Your Security Deposit.
Arizona Security Deposit FAQ
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Arizona?
- In Arizona, landlords must return the security deposit within 14 days of the tenant moving out, per Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 33-1321. They must either return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement of any deductions.
- What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Arizona?
- In Arizona, the maximum security deposit is 1.5 months of rent under Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 33-1321.
- What happens if my landlord doesn't return my deposit on time in Arizona?
- In Arizona, the penalty for wrongfully withholding a security deposit is: Tenant may recover 2x (twice) the amount wrongfully withheld. You can sue in small claims court to recover the deposit plus the statutory penalty.
- Does my landlord in Arizona have to pay interest on my security deposit?
- No. Arizona does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
- Does my landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit in Arizona?
- Yes. Arizona law requires landlords to provide an itemized statement of any deductions made from your security deposit.