Delaware's one-month cap depends on lease length and tenancy type. Deposits go into protected escrow. Refunds and itemized claims are generally due within 20 days after the agreement ends.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
1
months' rent
Return deadline
20
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
—
statute silent
Separate account
Required
Maximum Security Deposit
1 month's rent
Applies to leases of one year or more and month-to-month tenancies after one year; furnished units excepted.
Return Deadline
20 days
After expiration or termination of rental agreement; itemization and balance due within the statutory period.
Interest on Deposit
Statute silent
Interest obligation not established.
Separate Account Required
Required
Federally insured Delaware-office escrow account; deposit-account location disclosed; not used for business operations.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Damage beyond normal wear; rent arrears/late charges; qualifying premature-termination and rerenting expenses.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary Delaware statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Delaware?
Delaware law limits security deposits to 1 month's rent. Applies to leases of one year or more and month-to-month tenancies after one year; furnished units excepted.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Delaware?
Delaware landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 20 days after the tenancy ends. After expiration or termination of rental agreement; itemization and balance due within the statutory period.
Does Delaware require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
Delaware's security deposit statute does not expressly address whether landlords must pay interest on deposits. Interest obligation not established.
Must Delaware landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
Yes. Delaware requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account. Federally insured Delaware-office escrow account; deposit-account location disclosed; not used for business operations.
Automate security deposit compliance
Property management software handles deposit tracking, deadline reminders, itemized deduction statements, and compliant separate account requirements automatically — so you never miss a Delaware deadline.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security deposit laws change — always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in Delaware before making decisions. Official source: https://delcode.delaware.gov/title25/c055/index.html. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.