Security Deposit Demand Letter (California)

California Civil Code § 1950.5 requires a landlord to return your security deposit — or a written, itemized statement of any deductions plus the remaining balance — within 21 days after you move out. If that deadline has passed, a clear written demand is a good first step. Fill in the bracketed fields below and keep a copy of everything you send.

Template

[Your Name]
[Your Current Address]

[Date]

[Landlord Name]
[Landlord Address]

Re: Demand for return of security deposit — [Unit Address]

Dear [Landlord Name],

I rented the unit at [Unit Address] and moved out on [Move-out Date]. I paid a security deposit
of [Deposit Amount]. Under California Civil Code § 1950.5, you were required to return my deposit
or provide an itemized statement of deductions within 21 days of my move-out. As of today, I have
not received [my deposit / a proper itemized statement].

I request that you return the full amount of [Deposit Amount], or a lawful itemized statement and
any remaining balance, within 14 days of the date of this letter, sent to the address above.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]