North Carolina's Tenant Security Deposit Act sets statewide caps that Charlotte landlords must follow: 1.5 months' rent for month-to-month leases, 2 months' rent for longer leases, and 2 weeks for week-to-week tenancies.
Under NCGS 42-51 through 42-56, landlords in Charlotte cannot collect more than the statutory maximum. Deposits must be held in a trust account at an FDIC-insured NC bank or covered by a surety bond, and the landlord must disclose the institution name and address within 30 days. Deductions are limited to specified categories — unpaid rent, damage beyond ordinary wear, costs of re-renting after breach, and unpaid utilities. Itemized accounting is due within 30 days after termination, or 60 days if final damage assessment requires more time. Charlotte cannot exceed or alter these caps because state law preempts local deposit regulation.
Failing to return a deposit or provide itemized accounting within statutory deadlines forfeits the right to retain any portion and can trigger tenant damages claims.
Charlotte, NC
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Charlotte, NC
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See how Charlotte's security deposit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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