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Arizona security deposit law
Short answer: An Arizona landlord has 14 business days after the tenancy ends, the tenant moves out and the tenant asks for it, to send an itemized list of deductions and any refund. Deposits, including prepaid rent, are capped at one and a half months' rent.
| Deadline to return the deposit | 14 days, not counting weekends or legal holidays, after the tenancy ends, the tenant hands over possession and the tenant makes a demand. |
|---|---|
| Limit on how much a landlord can charge | One and a half months' rent, counting prepaid rent. A tenant can still choose to prepay more rent voluntarily. |
| Itemized list of deductions | Yes. The landlord must send an itemized list of all deductions with any amount owed, by first-class mail to the tenant's last known address unless the tenant arranged otherwise in writing. |
| Interest on the deposit | Not required by state law. |
| Penalty if the landlord breaks the rules | A landlord who doesn't follow the return rules owes the money due plus damages of twice the amount wrongfully withheld. |
| What the tenant has to do | Ask (demand) for your deposit back after you move out; the 14-day clock starts with that demand. Dispute the deductions within 60 days of the list being mailed, or the landlord's numbers become final. |
| The law | Arizona Revised Statutes Section 33-1321 |
Official law: Arizona Revised Statutes Section 33-1321. Checked against the statute on 2026-11-04.
Good to know
- At move-in the landlord must give the tenant a signed lease, a move-in form for noting existing damage, and written notice that the tenant may attend the move-out inspection.
- Any fee or deposit not clearly labeled as nonrefundable in writing is refundable.
Tips for landlords
- Do a written move-in inspection and have the tenant sign it. Take dated photos of every room, including inside appliances and closets.
- Collect the tenant's forwarding address in writing at move-out.
- Put the itemized list and the refund in the mail well before the deadline, and keep proof of mailing.
- Normal wear and tear (faded paint, light carpet wear, small nail holes) usually can't be charged. Damage beyond that can.
Tips for tenants
- Take your own dated photos and video on move-in day and move-out day.
- Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing, and keep a copy.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand letter that cites the law above before going to small claims court.
Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Arizona?
14 days, not counting weekends or legal holidays, after the tenancy ends, the tenant hands over possession and the tenant makes a demand.
Is there a limit on security deposits in Arizona?
One and a half months' rent, counting prepaid rent. A tenant can still choose to prepay more rent voluntarily.
Does a landlord in Arizona have to itemize deductions?
Yes. The landlord must send an itemized list of all deductions with any amount owed, by first-class mail to the tenant's last known address unless the tenant arranged otherwise in writing.