Alabama Security Deposit Laws: Limits & Return Deadlines

Understanding Alabama’s security deposit laws is key to protecting your rights and getting your money back after moving out. In Alabama, both limits on deposits and strict deadlines for returns are set by law. This guide covers what renters need to know—from how much a landlord can charge up front, to when and how you can expect your deposit returned.

Alabama Security Deposit Limits

Alabama law restricts the amount a landlord can require as a security deposit. The standard limit is:

• No more than one month’s rent as a security deposit.
• Exceptions are allowed for additional deposits for pets, changes to the unit, or increased liability risks.

This limit is designed to prevent excessive up-front costs for renters and is set in Alabama Code Section 35-9A-201 ^[1].

What Can Landlords Deduct?

When you move out, your landlord may only withhold from your deposit for legitimate reasons, such as:

• Unpaid rent
• Damage beyond normal wear and tear
• Any other agreed-upon costs specified in your lease

Security Deposit Return Deadlines

Alabama landlords are required to return your security deposit within 60 days after your tenancy ends and you move out. If deductions are made, the landlord must provide an itemized list detailing how your deposit was used.

• If you do not provide a forwarding address, the landlord sends the deposit or itemized list to your last known address.
• If the landlord fails to return your deposit or list within the 60-day limit, you have the right to recover the original deposit amount plus possible damages in court.

Official Forms for Security Deposit Disputes

Alabama does not offer a universal statewide form for requesting a security deposit return, but there are general steps you can take:

• Written Security Deposit Demand Letter: Draft a formal letter requesting your deposit back and include your new mailing address. Send this to your landlord via certified mail and keep a copy for your records.

Example: After 60 days, if you have not received your deposit back, you can send a demand letter to your landlord describing the situation and referencing Alabama law. While there is no standardized form, helpful templates are often available from local Legal Aid organizations or by referencing guidance from the Alabama Attorney General's Office.

If your landlord still does not comply, you can consider filing a small claims case in your local district court.

Who Handles Residential Tenancy Disputes in Alabama?

In Alabama, residential tenancy disputes—such as issues with deposit returns—are generally handled through county Small Claims Court. You can file a claim if your landlord fails to return your deposit as required. Find more at the Alabama Unified Judicial System Small Claims Court.

Relevant Alabama Tenancy Law

All Alabama rental relationships are governed by the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act ^[1], specifically Section 35-9A-201 for security deposit information.

Action Steps: Getting Your Security Deposit Back

• Provide your landlord with your new address in writing before you move out.
• Clean the unit and document its condition.
• Wait up to 60 days after moving out for your deposit and itemized statement (if applicable).
• If you do not receive your deposit, send a formal demand letter referencing Alabama law.
• If still unresolved, consider filing a small claims court action in your county.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much can my landlord ask for as a security deposit in Alabama?
   Landlords are limited to one month’s rent as a security deposit, unless extra money is needed for pets, modifications, or increased liability risks.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   Landlords must return your deposit (and any deductions with an itemized list) within 60 days after you move out.
3. What should I do if I don’t get my deposit back?
   Send a written demand letter to your landlord. If still unresolved, you can file a case with the Small Claims Court for your county.
4. What can be legally withheld from my deposit?
   Only rent owed, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other charges listed in your lease can be withheld.
5. Do I need to fill out a special form to request my deposit back in Alabama?
   No specific state form is required, but it’s best to make your request in writing and keep a copy for your records.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Alabama Renters

• Security deposits are capped at one month’s rent, with limited exceptions.
• Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 60 days.
• If you don’t get your deposit back, written requests and small claims court are effective options.

Knowing your rights about security deposit limits and return deadlines helps ensure a smoother move-out process and better protects your finances.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alabama Small Claims Court Finder – file disputes about security deposits.
• Alabama Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Resources
• Full Alabama Code – see all tenancy laws.
• Local Legal Aid groups for free assistance: Legal Services Alabama

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1. Alabama Code Section 35-9A-201: Limitation of Security Deposit
2. Alabama Unified Judicial System – Small Claims Information

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