Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do security deposit rules rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Long Beach and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
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 →Los Angeles, 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 for most landlords. Los Angeles follows state law without adding a local cap or registration requirement.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Cal. Civ. Code 1950.5 | Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5 |
| Cap | One month's rent | One month's rent |
| Small-landlord | Up to two months | - |
| Refund window | 21 days | - |
| Effective | - | July 1, 2024 (AB-12) |
| Return deadline | - | 21 days after move-out |
| Bad-faith penalty | - | Up to twice deposit amount |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can a Los Angeles 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 is capped at one month's rent under Civil Code §1950.5.
Does the small-landlord exception apply in LA?
Yes. Owners of no more than two properties totaling four or fewer units may charge up to two months, except when renting to active-duty service members.
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