Kansas Caps Security Deposits and Sets a 30-Day Return Deadline

Under K.S.A. 58-2550, a landlord may not demand a security deposit greater than one month's periodic rent for an unfurnished dwelling, or "1½ months' rent" where landlord-owned furniture is provided, and may add a pet deposit "not to exceed ½ of one month's rent." When the landlord keeps any portion for damages or other allowable charges, the balance must be returned "within 14 days after the determination of the amount of such expenses, damages or other charges, but in no event to exceed 30 days after termination of the tenancy." Deductions must be itemized in a written notice delivered to the tenant. The statute applies to residential rental agreements covered by the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

If the landlord wrongfully retains a deposit or fails to itemize and return it on time, the tenant may recover the amount due plus damages equal to 1.5 times the amount wrongfully withheld under K.S.A. 58-2550(c).