Attorney-Reviewed Legal Letters

Security Deposit Demand Letter — Get Your Deposit Back

California law requires landlords to return security deposits within 21 days of move-out. If your landlord is withholding your deposit without proper justification, a formal demand letter is often the fastest way to get your money back.

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How It Works

1

Submit Your Details

Fill out a guided intake form with the facts of your situation. No legal jargon required — just tell us what happened.

2

Attorney Reviews

A licensed attorney reviews, edits, and approves your letter using California-specific legal language and workflows.

3

Letter Delivered

Download your professionally formatted, attorney-reviewed letter as a PDF — ready to send.

Common Situations We Help With

Our security deposit demand letter covers a wide range of situations. Here are the most common use cases:

Landlord Won't Return Deposit

Your landlord has not returned your security deposit within the legally required timeframe after you moved out.

Wrongful Deductions

Your landlord made deductions for normal wear and tear, pre-existing damage, or charges not supported by documentation.

Missed Return Deadline

California requires landlords to return deposits within 21 days — if they missed this deadline, you have strong grounds for recovery.

Excessive Cleaning Charges

Your landlord charged unreasonable cleaning fees that exceed the actual cost of returning the unit to its original condition.

No Itemized Statement

California law requires landlords to provide an itemized statement of deductions. Failure to provide one can entitle you to the full deposit amount.

Save Thousands Compared to Traditional Attorneys

Get the same quality of legal correspondence at a fraction of the cost.

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$299per letter
  • Attorney-reviewed and approved
  • Delivered in 24–48 hours
  • California-specific legal language
  • Professional PDF format
  • Unlimited revisions during review
  • No hourly billing surprises
Traditional Attorney
$500+per hour
  • Hourly billing (2–5 hours typical)
  • Takes 1–2 weeks
  • Schedule consultations required
  • Retainer fees often required
  • Total cost: $1,000–$2,500+
  • Additional fees for revisions
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Frequently Asked Questions

Under California Civil Code § 1950.5, landlords must return the security deposit — or provide an itemized statement of deductions — within 21 calendar days after the tenant vacates the property.

Related Articles

How to Get Your Security Deposit Back

Learn about California tenant rights and the process for recovering your security deposit.

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What Is a Demand Letter?

Learn what demand letters are, when to use them, and how they can help resolve disputes.

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California Landlord-Tenant Rights Guide

Comprehensive guide to tenant protections and landlord obligations under California law.

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