What facts may matter to a bad-faith review?
Use this checklist to organize facts that may be relevant to a bad-faith inquiry without deciding intent. Start with your dates and records, then compare them with the current California source.
California: Facts relevant to a bad-faith review
Use this checklist to organize facts that may be relevant to a bad-faith inquiry without deciding intent.
Reviewed: 2026-08-11
How sources are checked →Deadline context
21 days
Statute
Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5
Review checklist
- Document dates, statements, charges, records supplied, and communications in one chronology.
- Separate observed facts from assumptions about motive or intent.
- Read the current source for the required standard, exceptions, and available remedies.
- Ask a licensed attorney about applying an intent-based standard to disputed facts.
Frequently asked questions
Questions to check against your California records and the current source.
What is the California deadline for deposit return?
21 calendar days after tenant vacates premises (21 days).
What remedy language should I review in California?
In addition to actual damages, a court may award up to 2x the deposit for bad-faith retention. Check every required fact, condition, defense, and notice before relying on that remedy.
Take the next step
Use the checklist above to organize your dates and records, then choose the action that fits what you found.