Idaho Security Deposit Statute Guide
Idaho's security deposit process is grounded in Idaho Code Sections 6-320, 6-321, and 6-324, plus official Idaho Attorney General and Court Self-Help materials that explain the practical demand workflow.
Refund and itemization rule
Idaho's default deadline is 21 days after the lease ends. A lease may set a different period, but the period cannot be longer than 30 days.
The landlord should return the whole deposit or provide a partial refund with a written statement listing the deducted amounts and how the deductions were spent.
Normal wear and tear
Idaho self-help materials say the landlord can only deduct for reasons agreed upon in the lease and cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Demand before filing
Official Idaho self-help materials use a written demand after a landlord violates the security deposit rules. The practical workflow is to send the demand by certified mail return receipt or deliver it with a witness, then track 3 business days after the landlord receives it.
Tripled damages, costs, and fees
Idaho self-help materials describe tripled damages, court costs, and attorney fees as possible remedies in the right case. They are not automatic. The tripled-damages language is tied to the judge's finding and to malicious or intentional violation.
Official sources
- Idaho Attorney General - Landlord and Tenant Manual
- Idaho Court Self-Help - Idaho's Security Deposit Law
- Idaho Rules for Small Claims Actions
- Idaho Code Sections 6-320, 6-321, and 6-324
Source reviewed: April 2026.
Related Idaho pages
The system is built around Idaho's deadline, itemization, demand workflow, and final demand before court.
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