Alaska Statewide Rule
Alaska Security Deposit Law: Limits, Deadlines & Penalties (AS 34.03.070)
Key Facts
- Deposit cap
- 2 months' rent (no cap if rent exceeds $2,000/month)
- Return deadline
- 14 days with proper notice; 30 days otherwise
- Itemized statement
- Required; mailed to tenant's last known address
- Statute
- Alaska Stat. § 34.03.070
- Penalty
- Up to 2x the amount wrongfully withheld for willful noncompliance
Summary
Under Alaska Stat. 34.03.070, a landlord may not collect a security deposit (plus prepaid rent) exceeding two months' rent, unless monthly rent tops $2,000. Deposits must be returned within 14 days when the tenant gives proper termination notice, or 30 days otherwise, with an itemized statement. Willful violations carry up to double damages.
Except as provided in (h) of this section, 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. This section does not apply to rental units where the rent exceeds $2,000 a month.
Full Breakdown
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.
Violations & Penalties
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Alaska?
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Alaska?
What can a landlord deduct from a security deposit in Alaska?
Sources
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