Is My Security Deposit Legal?
Enter your details below to check whether the deposit your landlord is requesting is within the legal maximum for your jurisdiction.
Check Your Deposit
The full deposit amount your landlord is asking you to pay upfront.
Type of deposit
Does your landlord say the deposit earns interest?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Ontario?
In Ontario, a landlord can only collect a rent deposit equal to the last month's rent (one month's rent maximum). They cannot charge an additional security deposit. The deposit must be applied to the last month of the tenancy.
Is a landlord required to pay interest on a security deposit?
It depends on the jurisdiction. In Ontario, landlords must pay interest on the last month's rent deposit equal to the annual rent increase guideline. In British Columbia, interest is required. In many US states and Alberta, interest is not required. Check the rules for your specific province or state.
What is the maximum security deposit in California?
In California, the maximum security deposit for an unfurnished unit is 2 months' rent, and for a furnished unit it is 3 months' rent (effective April 2024: 1 month for most tenancies under AB 2801). Landlords must return the deposit within 21 days of move-out.
Can a landlord in Canada ask for both a security deposit and last month's rent?
This varies by province. In Ontario, only a last month's rent deposit is permitted — no additional security deposit. In British Columbia, a landlord can collect a security deposit of up to half a month's rent, and may also collect a pet damage deposit of up to half a month's rent. Always check your provincial tenancy laws.