New Mexico's main security deposit deadline is 30 days after termination of the rental agreement or resident departure, whichever is later. Within that period, the landlord generally must provide the itemized written list of deductions and any deposit balance owed.
What the written statement must do
If the landlord keeps any part of the deposit, the written statement should identify the exact reasons for withholding. New Mexico does not allow deposit money to be kept for normal wear and tear.
Mailing and address proof
New Mexico treats the landlord as complying by mailing the statement and any required payment to the resident's last known address. If that mailing is returned as undeliverable and the resident provided an alternative address, the landlord has an additional notice obligation.
Give a current mailing or forwarding address in writing and keep proof. This is not a special demand trigger, but it prevents avoidable confusion about where the landlord was supposed to send the response.
What happens if the landlord misses the deadline
If the landlord fails to provide the written statement and payment within the 30-day period, the landlord can forfeit the right to withhold any portion of the deposit. New Mexico also provides a civil penalty equal to twice the amount improperly withheld.
Official sources
- New Mexico Legislature - HB0111 amending Section 47-8-18
- Housing New Mexico / New Mexico Legal Aid - Renter's Guide
- New Mexico Courts Law Library - Landlord-Tenant Resource Guide
Source reviewed: April 2026.
New Mexico's deadline is powerful when the record is clear. The system keeps timing, itemization, and final demand together.
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