Arizona security deposit law generally requires the landlord to provide an itemized list of deductions and any amount due within 14 days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after termination of tenancy, delivery of possession, and demand by the tenant.
The main statute is A.R.S. section 33-1321. It covers the deposit cap, nonrefundable-fee designation, move-in form, move-out inspection notice, itemized list, mailing rule, 60-day dispute issue, and damages for noncompliance.
For the source-focused version, see the Arizona security deposit statute guide.
The rule in plain English
- Deadline: 14 days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays.
- Trigger: termination of tenancy, delivery of possession, and demand by the tenant.
- Accounting: the landlord must provide an itemized list of deductions.
- Refund: any amount due to the tenant must be sent with the accounting.
- Mailing: unless the tenant makes other written arrangements, the landlord mails the response by first-class mail to the tenant's last known place of residence.
Deposit cap and nonrefundable fees
Arizona generally prohibits a landlord from demanding or receiving security, including prepaid rent, in an amount or value of more than one and one-half months' rent. A tenant may voluntarily pay more in advance.
A nonrefundable fee or deposit must have its nonrefundable purpose stated in writing. Anything not designated as nonrefundable is refundable.
Move-in form and move-out inspection notice
At move-in, the landlord must furnish a signed lease copy, a move-in form for existing damages, and written notification that the tenant may be present at the move-out inspection.
The tenant may request notice of when the move-out inspection will occur. Arizona has an exception when the tenant is evicted for material and irreparable breach and the landlord has reasonable cause to fear violence or intimidation.
If the landlord does not comply
If the landlord fails to comply with the deposit return and itemization rule, Arizona law allows the tenant to recover the property and money due plus damages equal to twice the amount wrongfully withheld.
Keep the demand focused on the missed deadline, tenant demand, possession delivery, mailing record, itemized list, 60-day dispute record, and amount wrongfully withheld.
Related Arizona guides
- Arizona security deposit deadline
- Arizona security deposit demand letter
- What can an Arizona landlord deduct?
- Arizona security deposit evidence guide
The free guide above explains the Arizona rule. The paid system gives you the Arizona-specific letters in order, so you are not guessing what to send next.
Get the Deposit Recovery SystemImportant: This page provides general information and is not legal advice.