Bakersfield landlords must follow California Civil Code 1950.5 on security deposits. As of 2024, residential deposits are capped at one month's rent for most landlords regardless of furnished status.
Bakersfield does not impose a local deposit ordinance, so California Civil Code 1950.5 controls. Effective July 2024, residential landlords are limited to a security deposit equal to one month's rent for both furnished and unfurnished units. A small-landlord exception allows up to two months for individual owners with two or fewer rental properties totaling no more than four units. Landlords must return the deposit, with an itemized statement of any deductions, within 21 calendar days after the tenant vacates. Deductions may cover unpaid rent, repair of damage beyond ordinary wear, and reasonable cleaning to return the unit to its move-in condition.
Demanding more than the statutory cap, withholding without an itemized statement, or returning late beyond 21 days can result in actual damages, statutory penalties, and bad-faith awards up to twice the deposit.
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See how Bakersfield's security deposit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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