Bad Faith Analyzer

Check if your landlord's handling of your deposit shows signs of bad faith, which may entitle you to penalty damages.

Select Your State

California Penalties: Up to 2x deposit amount for bad faith

Maximum: Up to 2x deposit (potentially 3x total)

Answer these questions about your situation:

Did the landlord return the deposit or itemization within 21 days?

Critical

For deductions over $125, did the landlord provide receipts?

Critical

For move-outs after April 2025, did landlord provide damage photos?

Were you offered a pre-move-out inspection?

Were you charged a flat cleaning fee or for routine cleaning?

Were you charged for normal wear and tear?

What is "Bad Faith" Retention?

Bad faith means the landlord knowingly or recklessly withheld your deposit without valid justification. It's more than a simple mistake—it suggests intentional wrongdoing.

Examples of bad faith:

Missing the legal deadline to return the deposit
Failing to provide required documentation (receipts, photos)
Charging for normal wear and tear
Claiming damage that didn't exist
Ignoring pre-existing conditions documented at move-in
Significantly inflating repair costs

Why it matters: Most states impose penalty damages for bad faith retention—often 2x or 3x the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney fees.