ReclaimDepositCalifornia Security Deposit Demand Letter Template
Verified: Jan 2026A professional demand letter template specifically designed for California's security deposit laws, citing Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 and referencing the 21 return deadline.
21
Deadline
Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5
Primary Statute
Up to 2x the deposit for bad faith retention
Potential Penalty
Key Elements of a California Demand Letter
- 121-day calendar deadline
- 2Itemized statement required
- 3Receipts required for deductions over $125
- 4Pre-move-out inspection rights
- 5Bad faith penalty warning (2x deposit)
- 6Photo documentation (AB 2801)
Sample Letter Excerpt
Pursuant to California Civil Code Section 1950.5, you were required to return my security deposit within 21 calendar days of my vacating the premises, along with an itemized statement of any deductions.
As of today, [X] days have elapsed since I moved out on [DATE]. Your failure to comply with this deadline may constitute bad faith under Civil Code 1950.5(l), entitling me to recover up to twice the amount of the deposit in addition to actual damages.
I hereby demand immediate return of my full security deposit of $[AMOUNT].
This is a sample excerpt. Your personalized letter will include your specific dates, amounts, deductions, and complete legal arguments.
What's Included in Your Demand Letter
Your name, address, and landlord details
Specific legal citations for California
Itemized breakdown of contested deductions
Calculation of statutory penalties
Suggested response deadline (e.g., 14 days)
Court-ready PDF format