Delaware Deposit Return Deadline
20 daysUnder Delaware law, a landlord generally has 20 days after move-out to return your security deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) — the FAQ below covers the conditions that can change the deadline.
Educational information: generated from our Delaware law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How Delaware compares
51 of 51 US jurisdictions set a statutory deadline for returning security deposits. Here is how Delaware compares with other states in our database.
| State | Deposit Return Deadline |
|---|---|
| Delaware | 20 days |
| District of Columbia | 45 days |
| Florida | 15 days (30-day notice if deductions) |
| Georgia | 30 days (60 for military tenants) |
| Hawaii | 14 days |
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Delaware?
- Generally 20 days after move-out. Maximum 1 month rent for leases of 1 year or longer (no limit for first year of month-to-month). Additional pet deposit up to 1 month allowed. Must be held in escrow. Return within 20 days. Double damages for failure to return.
- Can a Delaware landlord keep my deposit for damages?
- Landlords may generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, but must account for deductions. Deductions for ordinary wear and tear are not allowed.
- What if my Delaware landlord misses the deposit return deadline?
- Missing the statutory deadline (20 days) can expose the landlord to statutory penalties. Maximum 1 month rent for leases of 1 year or longer (no limit for first year of month-to-month). Additional pet deposit up to 1 month allowed. Must be held in escrow. Return within 20 days. Double damages for failure to return.
Check Your Lease Against Delaware Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with Delaware law? Upload it and our analyzer flags problem clauses — deposit terms, entry rights, fees and prohibited provisions — using the same statute-backed database this page is generated from.
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More Delaware lease law guides
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in Delaware for your specific situation.