qira-insights-header-2

Alabama Security Deposit Laws

Author: Kasee Godwin
Date: 09.20.2022

It’s commonplace in Alabama for property owners to collect a standard one-month security deposit from renters in order to protect themselves against damages and delinquent rent. Unlike other states, Alabama’s legislation around security deposit collection is fairly straightforward. Here’s a brief summary of Alabama legislation around security deposit regulations for rental properties.

Is there a limit on how much the property manager/owner can charge for an application fee? If so, what is that amount?

There is no limit on the application fee amount in the state of Alabama. Application fees are separate from security deposits and are non-refundable unless otherwise noted.

What is the security deposit amount the landlord can collect?

As an Alabama property owner, you can request a security deposit of up to one month’s rent to protect your property in the event of damages or unpaid rent.

Can the property manager/owner collect a fee for pets?

A pet deposit separate from the apartment security deposit is allowed in the state of Alabama. Service pets are an exemption, and disabled persons with service pets do not have to pay an additional security deposit. However, if a service dog causes damages, the resident is still liable for expenses incurred.

How does the security deposit need to be held?

According to Alabama state law, the deposit can be managed in the bank account of the property owners choosing, and a separate or escrow account does not need to be set up.

Is the property manager/owner required to tell the resident where the deposit is held?

Property managers in Alabama are not required to tell residents where the deposit is held.

Is the property manager/owner required to tell the resident what the interest rate on the account is (if applicable)?

Property owners in Alabama are not required to tell residents what the interest on their security deposit it.

What can the property manager/owner deduct from the security deposit?

Property managers operating in Alabama may keep a portion of the security deposit to cover unpaid rent or damages that exceed normal wear and tear. An itemized list of damages and repair costs must be provided to the vacating residents.

How long does the property manager/owner have to return the security deposit after the lease has ended?

In the state of Alabama, the security deposit, or its remainder (after additional costs have been incurred, if applicable) must be returned to the renter within 60 days after vacating the property alongside an itemized list of deductions, if applicable. The deposit must be sent to the last known address or the resident at the address of the rental property.

What penalties does the property manager/owner face if they do not return the security deposit on time?

Property owners in Alabama that do not provide itemized descriptions of the damages and repair costs to residents within 60 days may be fined up to double the amount of the security charges.

What is the process for the property manager/owner to claim the security deposit funds?

In the state of Alabama, an itemized receipt must be sent to the vacating resident with the refund detailing the exact reasons for which the property owner has withheld all or part of the security deposit.

Is the resident allowed to apply their security deposit towards the last month’s rent?

According to Alabama law, renters cannot choose to use the security deposit for their last months’ rent, unless the property manager/owner agrees to it in writing.

To summarize, Alabama law concerning security deposit regulations for rental properties is quite standard and clear. Properties should be sure to keep full and accurate records of all damages incurred in order to provide renters with an itemized list of deductions, if applicable, at the end of the lease.

Disclaimer & Sources:

Qira aims to keep this information as up-to-date as possible. The content provided here is for informational purposes and should not replace legal counsel. Please refer to the relevant government sources to check for any changes or updates to the law.

kasee-godwin-80x80

Kasee Godwin

Position: Director of Marketing
Social Networks

Kasee is the Director of Marketing for Qira. She has nearly 15 years of experience in the real estate marketing industry, including 10 years on the client side. In her spare time, she enjoys reading science fiction, exploring new wineries, and fostering Golden Retrievers.

Other news

decorative image of Qira's logo

Mitigating Rental Risks with Tenant Screening Reports

Tenant screening reports are an essential tool in evaluating whether or not a rental applicant is a good candidate, learn more about how to conduct these reports in the most effective and cost-saving way possible.

Author: Kasee Godwin
Date: 06.01.2023
decorative image of Qira's logo

5 Tips for Growth at a Property Management Conference

Learn 5 tips to maximize your professional growth at a property management conference this season!

Author: Kasee Godwin
Date: 05.30.2023
decorative image of Qira's logo

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Multifamily Housing Industry

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly popular in the real estate industry, transforming how property managers and owners operate their properties.

Author: Kasee Godwin
Date: 05.25.2023
decorative image of Qira's logo

How to Write a Security Deposit Return Letter

Property managers who collect security deposits are always expected to send a security deposit return letter. This article outlines best practices when writing security deposit return letters.

Author: Kasee Godwin
Date: 05.22.2023
decorative image of Qira's logo

8 Tips for First-Time Renters: From Budgeting to Finding the Perfect Apartment

Renting an apartment for the first time can be daunting, but you can make the process smoother with the right tips. Here are 8 tips for first-time renters to help you navigate the process.

Author: Kasee Godwin
Date: 05.18.2023
decorative image of Qira's logo

How to Navigate Evolving Security Deposit Laws by State

Learn how can your property management company can thrive while state security deposit laws are evolving to create more rental affordability.

Author: Kasee Godwin
Date: 05.15.2023
decorative image of Qira's logo

Rent Reporting: a Game-Changer for Property Managers & Renters

Reporting rent to the major credit bureaus is not only great for renters--but can help property management as well by bringing in reliable renters.

Author: Kasee Godwin
Date: 05.08.2023

We are a financial services platform for property management

We are a financial services platform for property managers and residents. We help property managers and owners improve cash flow, reduce vacancies and avoid bad debt.

1-3