Kentucky Statewide Rule

Kentucky Security Deposit Rules Under KRS 383.580 (URLTA)

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Kentucky (2026)

Kentucky sets no dollar cap on residential security deposits. Where the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act applies, landlords must hold deposits in a separate account, disclose its location, provide a move-in damage list, and give an itemized statement before deducting. These rules apply only in cities and counties that adopted URLTA.

Key Facts

Deposit cap: No statutory cap
Return deadline: After lease ends and tenant requests/provides forwarding address; unclaimed deposits forfeit after 60 days
Itemized statement: Required before any deduction; move-in damage list also required
Statute: KRS 383.580
Applies where: Cities/counties that adopted URLTA

Last verified: 2026-06-27

Full Breakdown

Under KRS 383.580 there is no statutory maximum on a security deposit. The statute requires that "All landlords of residential property requiring security deposits prior to occupancy shall be required to deposit all tenants' security deposits in an account used only for that purpose," and the tenant must be told the account's location and number. Before move-in, the tenant must receive a written list of existing damage with repair estimates and may inspect to verify it. At move-out the landlord must give an itemized statement before keeping any portion for damages. Crucially, KRS 383.500-.715 (URLTA) governs only in jurisdictions that have adopted it, including Louisville/Jefferson County and Lexington/Fayette County; elsewhere common law applies.

Violations & Penalties

A landlord who fails to maintain the separate account or to furnish the required move-in or move-out damage listing forfeits the right to retain any part of the deposit under KRS 383.580, and a non-complying landlord cannot use the courts to keep withheld funds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Kentucky?

Kentucky sets no statutory cap on security deposits under KRS 383.580, so the amount is whatever the lease specifies. In URLTA jurisdictions the deposit must be held in a separate account whose location is disclosed to the tenant.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Kentucky?

KRS 383.580 sets no fixed day-count. The landlord must provide an itemized statement and return the balance after the lease ends and the tenant requests it and gives a forwarding address. If the tenant never claims the deposit, it forfeits after 60 days.

What can a landlord deduct from a security deposit in Kentucky?

In URLTA cities and counties a landlord may deduct for damage beyond normal wear and unpaid rent, but only after giving the tenant an itemized statement. A landlord who skips the required listings or separate account forfeits the right to retain the deposit.

Sources

KRS 383.580 Security deposits

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