DE · TenantClaim
Delaware Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 20 calendar days to return a deposit under Delaware Code Title 25 Section 5514. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Delaware deposit calculator
Statutory math from Delaware Code Title 25 Section 5514.
Ready to Calculate Your Rights
Enter your lease dates and deposit amounts to instantly evaluate:
- State statutory return deadline & overdue status
- Treble (3x) or double (2x) bad-faith penalty eligibility
- Small claims court limit & demand letter generation
Bad-faith penalties
A landlord who wrongfully withholds a deposit may be liable for double the amount of the deposit (Del. Code tit. 25 § 5514).
Multiplier: 2x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Delaware
- Carpet wear or flattening in high-traffic pathways from normal foot traffic
- Small nail or pin holes from hanging pictures or curtains
Unlawful Deductions
These charges are illegal
- Charging for ordinary wear and tear instead of damage beyond normal use under Delaware Code Title 25 Section 5514
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 20 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$25,000
Claims above this Delaware ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Delaware Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideDelaware security deposit FAQ
How long does a Delaware landlord have to return my deposit?+
Delaware generally requires return within 20 calendar days after move-out under Delaware Code Title 25 Section 5514. If the deadline falls on a weekend, TenantClaim rolls it to the next Monday.
What happens if the landlord keeps my deposit in bad faith?+
A landlord who wrongfully withholds a deposit may be liable for double the amount of the deposit (Del. Code tit. 25 § 5514).
What is the Delaware small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $25,000. Larger recoveries may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction of the claim.
Does the landlord have to send an itemized list?+
Yes. Delaware requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.