Delaware security-deposit return deadline

Under Del. Code tit. 25, §5514, you have 20 days from move-out. Enter the date the tenant vacated to get your exact deadline.

Deadlines per Del. Code tit. 25, §5514. Delaware statutes change; verify with the current statute. Not legal advice.

What Del. Code tit. 25, §5514 requires

  • Return deadline: 20 days
  • Deposit cap: 1 month's rent — Cap applies to leases of 1 year or more; no cap for furnished units; month-to-month capped at 1 month after the first year
  • Itemized damage list with repair costs required within the 20 days
  • Missing the deadline is an acknowledgment that no deductions are due; wrongful withholding: 2x the amount due

Statutes as of August 2026. Statutes change — verify with the current text of Del. Code tit. 25, §5514 before relying on a deadline. This is general information, not legal advice; consult a Delaware attorney for your situation.

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