Delaware security deposit law

Read from the statute itself on 2026-11-09. Statewide rule; a city or county can add its own.

Maximum deposit: Depends — see the rule
Return deadline: 20 days
Interest: Not required by the statute

One month's rent for leases of 1 year or more, and for month-to-month tenancies once they have lasted 1 year; no cap for shorter leases or furnished units. The deadline is 20 days after the lease ends; no interest is required. No itemized list means no damages may be kept; wrongful retention means double damages.

Source: 25 Del. C. § 5514(a), (e), (f) · read on 2026-11-09

Calculate it for your rent

State

Monthly rent ($)

The cap depends on your situation

Return deadline

20 days

Within 20 days after the lease ends: return the deposit, or send an itemized list of damages with estimated repair costs and pay the difference.

Interest required

Not required by the statute

Source: 25 Del. C. § 5514(a), (e), (f) · read on 2026-11-09

Delaware: common questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Delaware?

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Delaware?

20 days. Within 20 days after the lease ends: return the deposit, or send an itemized list of damages with estimated repair costs and pay the difference.

Not legal advice. Confirm with a local landlord-tenant attorney before relying on a figure.

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<p style="font-size:13px;margin:4px 0 0">Free <a href="https://www.proprietio.com/tools/security-deposit-calculator">security deposit calculator by state</a> by Proprietio.</p>