North Carolina Security Deposit Law
Statute text last checked: October 23, 2026
Return deadline
30 days (up to 60 with interim accounting)
Statute
N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-51; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-52
Does your lease's deposit clause match North Carolina law? Upload it to see which clauses may conflict.
Check your North Carolina lease →How much can a landlord charge?
2 weeks' rent for a week-to-week tenancy, 1½ months' rent for month-to-month, and 2 months' rent for terms longer than month-to-month.
When must the deposit be returned?
Within 30 days after the tenancy ends and the landlord gets possession, the landlord must refund the deposit or send an itemized list of damages. If the extent of the claim can't be determined in that time, an interim accounting is due within 30 days and a final accounting within 60 days.
Key rules
- Deposits may be used only for listed purposes, such as unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and certain costs of re-renting or removing property.
- Normal wear and tear can't be deducted.
If the landlord doesn't follow the law
Remedies for violations are set out elsewhere in Chapter 42, Article 6. Check the current statute or a local legal aid office for what applies to your situation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum security deposit in North Carolina?
Two weeks' rent for week-to-week, 1½ months for month-to-month, and two months for longer terms.
When must a North Carolina landlord return the deposit?
Within 30 days after the tenancy ends, or provide an interim accounting then and a final one within 60 days.
Sources
- N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-51 (official text)
- N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-52 (official text)
Landlord keeping your deposit?
We're building a kit to help you request it back. Join the waitlist.
No spam. Informational tool, not legal advice; FlagMyLease is not a law firm.