Lakewood vs Long Beach
How do security deposit rules rules compare between Lakewood, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Lakewood and Long Beach have similar restriction levels.
Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
California Civil Code §1950.5, amended by AB-12 effective July 2024, caps residential security deposits at one month's rent statewide. Los Angeles County does not add a local cap; state law controls in both incorporated and unincorporated areas.
View full Lakewood rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
California Civil Code section 1950.5 caps residential security deposits at one month's rent for most landlords statewide, and Long Beach landlords must return the deposit, with itemized deductions, within twenty-one days after the tenant vacates.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5 | Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5 |
| Cap | One month's rent | One month's rent |
| Effective | July 1, 2024 (AB-12) | - |
| Return deadline | 21 days after move-out | - |
| Bad-faith penalty | Up to twice deposit amount | - |
| Small-landlord | - | Up to two months |
| Refund window | - | 21 days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
Can a landlord ask for last month's rent on top?
The combined total of any deposit plus advance rent beyond the first month is treated as a security deposit and capped at one month's rent under Civil Code §1950.5.
Where do I file a deposit dispute in unincorporated LA County?
DCBA's rent stabilization unit will mediate informally for unincorporated tenants. Final enforcement still requires small claims court, where statutory damages are available.
Long Beach FAQ
Can my landlord charge two months for a furnished unit?
No, AB 12 ended the furnished-unit exception for most landlords; only owner-occupied buildings with two or fewer units may still charge up to two months' rent statewide.
What if my deposit isn't returned in 21 days?
You can demand the full deposit plus statutory damages of up to twice the amount, and Long Beach Small Claims Court routinely hears section 1950.5 disputes for amounts under $12,500.
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