Security Deposit Laws in Arizona
Arizona caps security deposits at one and one-half months' rent, requires an itemized return within 14 business days after move-out and tenant demand, and requires two days' notice before landlord entry.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
Arizona at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- 1.5 months' rent
- 1.5 months' rent (security plus prepaid rent)
- Deposit return deadline
- 14 days
- 14 days after termination and delivery of possession and tenant demand, excluding weekends and legal holidays
- Interest on deposits
- Not required by state law
- Some cities have their own interest rules
- Notice before landlord entry
- 48 hours
- 2 days' notice
The rules in Arizona
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Arizona?
Arizona limits security deposits to 1.5 months' rent (security plus prepaid rent).
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Arizona?
Arizona rule: 14 days after termination and delivery of possession and tenant demand, excluding weekends and legal holidays.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Arizona?
No. Arizona state law does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Some cities have their own rules.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in Arizona?
Arizona rule: 2 days' notice.
Where do the Arizona rules for residential leases come from?
They come from A.R.S. 33-1321 and A.R.S. 33-1343. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How Arizona compares
Arizona is one of 30 jurisdictions that cap deposits by law. Its 14-day return deadline is shorter than the most common deadline of 30 days; no state requires a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.