California Security Deposit Deductions: 21-Day Worksheet
Calculate California security deposit deductions while keeping the 21-day return deadline and itemization rules visible.
Short answer
California generally uses a 21-day deadline after move-out for returning the deposit or sending an itemized statement when deductions are taken. The worksheet should pair each dollar amount with an item, source, and documented reason.
Worksheet preset: California deposit deduction article
Source: HUD Appendix 5D sample life expectancy chart. HUD examples list family-unit plush carpeting at five years; elderly-unit examples list seven years.
Formula: chargeable = max(0, replacement_cost x remaining_life / useful_life) - wear_allowance, then multiplied by documented damage share.
California comparison
| Work item | Better documentation | Common problem | |---|---|---| | Carpet replacement | Room photos and invoice | Full unit charged for one room | | Cleaning | Scope and receipt | Automatic fee without condition support | | Paint | Room-level repaint cost | Ordinary wear treated as damage |
How to use the worksheet
Select California in the state dropdown, add each deduction line, and export the CSV. Keep receipts, invoices, and photos with the worksheet.
Worksheet preset: California deposit deduction article
Source: HUD Appendix 5D sample life expectancy chart. HUD examples list family-unit plush carpeting at five years; elderly-unit examples list seven years.
Formula: chargeable = max(0, replacement_cost x remaining_life / useful_life) - wear_allowance, then multiplied by documented damage share.
FAQ
Does the calculator decide California law?
No. It keeps the arithmetic and public rule source visible. Use it as a worksheet, not legal advice.
Why include state deadline notes?
The same repair math can have different notice and itemization consequences depending on state timing rules.