Kentucky Security Deposit Laws: Limits & Return Deadlines

As a renter in Kentucky, understanding your rights regarding security deposits can help you avoid disputes and recover your money after moving out. Kentucky law sets specific rules for security deposit limits, handling, and return deadlines, protecting both tenants and landlords.

What Is a Security Deposit and How Is It Regulated in Kentucky?

A security deposit is money you pay your landlord before moving in, held as protection against unpaid rent or damages. Kentucky law regulates how landlords must collect, hold, and return these deposits.

Security Deposit Limits in Kentucky

• No state-wide maximum amount: In Kentucky, landlords are not limited by law in the amount they can request as a security deposit.^[1]
• Landlords can set their own deposit policy, but it should be clearly stated in the lease agreement.
• Local rules (city or county) may impose additional restrictions, so it’s important to check any local ordinances.

How Must Landlords Handle Your Security Deposit?

• Landlords must keep your security deposit in a separate account at a federally insured financial institution.
• They must disclose in writing—on the rental agreement—the name and location of the bank and the account number.^[1]
• Landlords are required to provide a detailed list of existing damage in your unit before you move in, signed by both parties.

Security Deposit Return Deadlines

• After you move out, your landlord has 30 days to return your security deposit or provide an itemized list of any deductions and their reasons.^[1]
• If you disagree with the deductions, you have 60 days from receiving the notice to object in writing.
• If your landlord fails to provide notice or return your deposit, you may have grounds to recover the full deposit amount.

Official Forms and Documentation for Kentucky Renters

• Move-In/Move-Out Inspection List (no state form number)
  • When to use: At the start and end of your tenancy to document the rental's condition. Both tenant and landlord should sign this list.
  • Example: Before you move in, your landlord gives you a written checklist of any pre-existing damage, which you both sign. Upon leaving, repeat this process to record the property’s condition.
  • Read more in Kentucky Statute 383.580
• Written Notice of Objection to Deposit Deductions
  • When to use: If you disagree with deductions, send your written objection within 60 days after receiving the itemized list from your landlord.
  • Example: You are charged for damage you believe is normal wear and tear. Write a letter to your landlord explaining and disputing these charges.
  • This is not an official state form, but you can find sample templates from local housing agencies or legal aid services.

Which Agency Handles Rental Disputes in Kentucky?

For most renters, issues about security deposits are handled in your local District Court. There is no statewide landlord-tenant board, but the Kentucky District Court system hears small claims and rental disputes throughout the state.

The primary rental law is the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA). Note that not all Kentucky counties have adopted URLTA, so local laws may also apply.^[1][2]

What to Do If You Need to Take Action

• Send a written request to your landlord for the return of your security deposit if it is late.
• If necessary, file a claim in District Court for recovery of your deposit.

1. How much can my landlord charge for a security deposit?
   There’s no state limit in Kentucky, but your lease should state the amount.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   30 days from your move-out date or from when you provide a forwarding address.
3. What if I don’t agree with my landlord’s deductions?
   You must send a written objection within 60 days after receiving the itemized statement.
4. Where can I get help if my landlord won’t return my deposit?
   Start by contacting your local District Court or Kentucky Legal Aid for advice.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

• Kentucky law does not cap security deposit amounts, but rules for handling and returning them are strict.
• Landlords must return your deposit or give an itemized deduction list within 30 days.
• Disputes can be resolved through written objections and, if necessary, District Court.

Stay organized by saving move-in/out documentation and keeping copies of all communication with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky District Court System – Handles rental deposit disputes
• Kentucky Housing Corporation – Offers renter resources and support
• Kentucky Legal Aid – Free or low-cost legal help for renters
• Full text of Kentucky Landlord-Tenant Act (URLTA)

---

1. Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS 383.500-383.715)
2. Kentucky Legislature: Current Statutes

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations