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Kansas security deposit law
Short answer: A Kansas landlord who keeps part of the deposit must return the balance within 14 days after figuring the charges, and no later than 30 days after the tenancy ends, the tenant moves out and asks for it. The cap is one month's rent for unfurnished units.
| Deadline to return the deposit | 14 days after the landlord determines the charges, and in no case more than 30 days after the tenancy ends, the tenant hands over possession and demands the deposit. If the tenant doesn't ask within 30 days, the landlord must mail what's owed to the tenant's last known address. |
|---|---|
| Limit on how much a landlord can charge | One month's rent for an unfurnished unit. One and a half months' rent if furnished. Plus up to half a month's rent more if pets are allowed. |
| Itemized list of deductions | Yes. Rent and damages taken from the deposit must be itemized in a written notice delivered to the tenant. |
| Interest on the deposit | Not required by state law. |
| Penalty if the landlord breaks the rules | A landlord who doesn't follow the return rules owes the deposit due plus damages of one and a half times the amount wrongfully withheld. |
| What the tenant has to do | Ask for your deposit after moving out. Don't use the deposit as your last month's rent unless the lease allows it, or you can forfeit it. |
| The law | Kansas Statutes Annotated 58-2550 |
Official law: Kansas Statutes Annotated 58-2550. Checked against the statute on 2026-11-04.
Good to know
- Deductions are limited to unpaid rent and damage from the tenant breaking the tenant's legal duties or the lease.
Tips for landlords
- Do a written move-in inspection and have the tenant sign it. Take dated photos of every room, including inside appliances and closets.
- Collect the tenant's forwarding address in writing at move-out.
- Put the itemized list and the refund in the mail well before the deadline, and keep proof of mailing.
- Normal wear and tear (faded paint, light carpet wear, small nail holes) usually can't be charged. Damage beyond that can.
Tips for tenants
- Take your own dated photos and video on move-in day and move-out day.
- Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing, and keep a copy.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand letter that cites the law above before going to small claims court.
Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Kansas?
14 days after the landlord determines the charges, and in no case more than 30 days after the tenancy ends, the tenant hands over possession and demands the deposit. If the tenant doesn't ask within 30 days, the landlord must mail what's owed to the tenant's last known address.
Is there a limit on security deposits in Kansas?
One month's rent for an unfurnished unit. One and a half months' rent if furnished. Plus up to half a month's rent more if pets are allowed.
Does a landlord in Kansas have to itemize deductions?
Yes. Rent and damages taken from the deposit must be itemized in a written notice delivered to the tenant.