Alaska Security Deposit Law: Limits, Deadlines & Penalties (AS 34.03.070)

Alaska Stat. 34.03.070 caps the combined security deposit and prepaid rent so a landlord "may not demand or receive prepaid rent or a security deposit, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of two months' periodic rent." That cap does not apply where rent exceeds $2,000 per month. When a tenancy ends, the landlord must mail an itemized written notice of any deductions, plus any refund due, to the tenant's last known address. The deadline is 14 days if the tenant gave proper notice of termination and complied, and 30 days in all other cases. Permitted deductions are limited to accrued unpaid rent and damages beyond ordinary wear and tear. If the landlord willfully fails to comply, the tenant may recover up to twice the amount wrongfully withheld.

Under Alaska Stat. 34.03.070(d), a landlord who willfully fails to provide the itemized statement and refund may be liable to the tenant for "an amount not to exceed twice the actual amount withheld," and tenants may pursue costs in court.