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Security Deposit Laws in Kentucky

Kentucky sets no cap on security deposits, and in cities and counties that adopted the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act landlords must keep deposits in a separate account and give at least 2 days' notice before entering.

Last checked . General information, not legal advice.

Kentucky at a glance

Security deposit limit
No statewide limit
State law sets no maximum deposit
Deposit return deadline
No fixed deadline
No fixed deadline; landlord must notify tenant of any refund and may keep an unclaimed refund after 60 days (30 days if last month's rent unpaid)
Interest on deposits
Not required by state law
Some cities have their own interest rules
Notice before landlord entry
48 hours
2 days' notice (in localities that adopted URLTA)

Sources

Last checked

The rules in Kentucky

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

Kentucky law sets no statewide limit on security deposits, so the amount is set by the lease. Check for local rules where you rent.

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

Kentucky rule: No fixed deadline; landlord must notify tenant of any refund and may keep an unclaimed refund after 60 days (30 days if last month's rent unpaid).

Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Kentucky?

No. Kentucky 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 Kentucky?

Kentucky rule: 2 days' notice (in localities that adopted URLTA).

Where do the Kentucky rules for residential leases come from?

They come from KRS 383.580 Security deposits, KRS 383.615 Access and KRS 383.500 Local adoption of URLTA. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.

How Kentucky compares

Kentucky is one of 21 jurisdictions with no statewide cap.

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.