North Carolina Security Deposit Laws
North Carolina sets security deposit limits based on the type of tenancy — up to 1.
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Key Rules
- Limit
- Up to 1.5 months rent (month-to-month); up to 2 months rent (term lease)
- Return Deadline
- 30 days (or 60 days if damage is extensive) after tenant vacates
- Itemization Required
- Yes — written itemized statement of deductions required
- Interest Required
- No
- Bad Faith Penalty
- Tenant may recover deposit in full plus reasonable attorney's fees for bad-faith withholding
Applicable Statutes
Security deposit limits by unit type: week-to-week tenancy — 2 weeks rent; month-to-month — 1.5 months rent; longer term leases — 2 months rent maximum.
Return of security deposit: landlord must return deposit within 30 days (60 days if damage is extensive) with itemized statement of deductions.
Legal Aid Resources
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Not Legal Advice. This site provides general educational information only — not legal counsel. Laws vary by location. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation.