Kansas Security Deposit Laws & Calculator

Kansas Security Deposit Law — Explained

The 30-Day Return Rule

Under Kan. Stat. § 58-2550, landlords have 30 days after the tenant moves out to return the security deposit or provide a written itemized statement of deductions. For deductions unrelated to rent (such as damage repairs), the landlord has 14 days after determining the amount — whichever deadline comes first. This dual-deadline system gives tenants a tighter window for accountability.

Deposit Cap: 1 Month (Unfurnished) / 1.5 Months (Furnished)

Kansas limits security deposits to 1 month's rent for unfurnished units and 1.5 months' rent for furnished units. This is one of the lower caps in the country, which benefits tenants by limiting upfront costs. Any amount collected above these limits is unlawful.

What Your Landlord Can Deduct

Landlords may deduct for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and costs to restore the unit to its original condition. The landlord must provide an itemized written notice of all deductions. Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, faded paint, carpet worn from regular use — cannot be charged to the tenant.

The 1.5x Penalty

If a landlord wrongfully withholds a deposit or fails to return it within the required timeframe, the tenant can sue for 1.5x the amount wrongfully withheld. While not as aggressive as the 2x or 3x penalties in some states, this still provides meaningful financial incentive for landlords to comply with the law.

Move-In and Move-Out Inspections

Kansas law encourages both parties to conduct a thorough inspection at move-in and move-out. Tenants should request to be present during the move-out inspection and take their own timestamped photos. A written inventory signed by both parties at move-in is your strongest evidence in any deposit dispute.

What to Do If Your Landlord Won't Return Your Deposit

1. 1
   Document everything before you leave Take timestamped photos and video of every room. Keep your lease and all communications.
2. 2
   Provide your forwarding address in writing Kansas requires the landlord to send the deposit or itemized statement to your last known address.
3. 3
   Send a written demand Use RenterCalc's demand letter generator citing Kan. Stat. § 58-2550. Send via certified mail.
4. 4
   Wait 30 days from your move-out date This is the statutory deadline for your landlord to return the deposit or provide an itemized deduction list.
5. 5
   File in small claims court Kansas's small claims limit is $4,000. You can sue for 1.5x the amount wrongfully withheld.

Security Deposit Laws in Nearby States

Compare Kansas's rules with neighboring states: