Idaho landlords should all understand their state’s security deposit law, as it helps them avoid common issues such as disagreements over returns, interest, or proper deductions.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about these laws, including the maximum amounts landlords can request, how to store deposits, whether landlords must pay interest, legal grounds for deductions, returning deposits, handling disputes, and more.
Statutes Regulating Idaho Security Deposits
Idaho’s security deposit rules are located within Title 6, Chapter 3, Section 6-321 of the Idaho Code, which outlines how landlords collect, hold, and return deposits. Idaho law sets no limit on the amount a landlord may request for a security deposit.
When a tenancy ends, a landlord must return the deposit or any remaining balance within 21 days unless the lease specifies a different period. If the lease extends this time window, the landlord still must return it within 30 days.
Maximum Security Deposit Amounts Under Idaho Law
Idaho law places no cap on security deposit amounts, allowing landlords to set deposits that match their property type, screening standards, and risk level. This flexibility applies to all rental arrangements, regardless of lease type or contract length.
Idaho state does not create separate limits for specific properties or situations, and no Idaho jurisdictions impose local caps that override statewide rules.
Security Deposit Storage Regulations
Idaho law does not require landlords to use a specific account, issue a receipt, or follow special procedures when they hold security deposits. Property owners can manage these funds as they see fit, and the state does not require them to notify tenants of where they keep the deposit.
Security Deposit Interest in Idaho
Idaho law does not require landlords to keep security deposits in interest-bearing accounts. Property owners do not need to calculate or return interest to tenants.
Making Security Deposit Deductions
Security deposit deductions help landlords keep their properties in prime condition. Tenants sometimes leave damage beyond normal wear and tear, and landlords rely on deposit funds to complete repairs that return the unit to its previous condition and support the long-term health of the rental.
When Landlords Can Deduct
Idaho landlords may draw from a tenant’s security deposit for the following reasons:
- Repair damage that exceeds normal wear and tear
- Clean areas left significantly dirty or unsanitary at move-out
- Fix items damaged by tenant misuse beyond ordinary, expected use
- Replace fixtures or features damaged through actions that violate the lease
- Cover unpaid rent or other charges owed under the rental agreement
When Landlords Can’t Deduct
Idaho landlords may not draw from a tenant’s security deposit for the following reasons:
- Address normal wear and tear that comes from everyday living
- Fix issues that stem from the landlord’s own lack of maintenance
- Pay for improvements that upgrade the unit beyond its prior condition
- Charge for routine turnover cleaning considered part of standard practice
- Cover damage unrelated to tenant behavior or responsibility under the lease
Necessary Documentation to Accompany Deductions
Idaho law requires landlords to provide tenants with a written, itemized list when they withhold any portion of a security deposit. This list must outline each deduction and its cost. Idaho does not require receipts or invoices, though landlords may include them to support the charges.
What to Do When Deductions are Greater Than the Deposit
Sometimes, tenant damage or unpaid charges exceed the deposit amount. When this occurs, an Idaho landlord may request additional payment from the former tenant to cover the remaining balance. Idaho law does not set a specific timeframe for collecting these extra costs, so landlords may pursue the amount as soon as they confirm the deficiency.
Landlords who cannot collect the remaining balance may file a claim through Idaho small claims court.
Returning Security Deposits to Tenants
Idaho law outlines how landlords must return any remaining portion of a tenant’s security deposit after lawful deductions. These rules help ensure clear expectations for both parties throughout the move-out process.
Required Timeline for Return
Idaho landlords must return the full deposit or a partial refund with an itemized list of deductions within 21 days after the tenant surrenders the unit. A lease may set a different deadline, but it cannot extend beyond 30 days.
Method for Return
Idaho law does not require a specific method for returning funds, so landlords may use a check, cash, electronic transfer, or any other reasonable method they see fit. When withholding any amount, a landlord must give the tenant a written itemized statement that explains each deduction and its cost, along with the refund.
Penalties for Late Return
If a landlord does not return the deposit or provide a proper itemized statement within the required timeframe, they lose the right to keep any portion of the funds. Tenants may also bring a claim in court, where a judge may award the full deposit and any additional damages or costs allowed by law.
Security Deposit Disputes
If a tenant disagrees with how a landlord handles a security deposit, the tenant has the right to raise a dispute. Tenants usually start by requesting clarification in writing. If the issue continues, they may seek mediation or file a claim in Idaho’s small claims court.
As a landlord, prepare for potential disputes by using move-in and move-out checklists, accounting and bookkeeping, and an iron-clad lease agreement. Strong documentation, steady communication, knowledge of Idaho law, and adherence to required timelines also help prevent disputes between landlords and tenants.
Using Condition Reports to Document Damage
When managing security deposits in Idaho, landlords gain clarity by using detailed move-in and move-out condition reports that track a unit’s condition at each stage. These reports simplify communication, reduce disputes, and make the deposit process easier to manage.
Use property management software to create digital reports with photos and videos taken directly from your smartphone. Careful documentation before move-in and after move-out will create accurate comparisons and make security deposit deductions far less negotiable.
Sign up for a free TurboTenant account to collect, manage, and return security deposits.
FAQs: Idaho Security Deposit Law
Can a landlord deduct painting from a security deposit in Idaho?
A landlord in Idaho may deduct painting costs when the work addresses damage that exceeds normal wear and tear. Routine repainting that comes with regular use does not qualify, but repainting needed due to stains, markings, or unauthorized changes may justify a deduction.
Are nail holes considered normal wear and tear in Idaho?
Most nail holes are considered normal wear and tear in Idaho, so landlords generally cannot deduct small holes from typical decorating. Larger holes, extensive wall damage, or situations that require more extensive repairs may qualify as deductible damage.
Who has to pay for carpet cleaning in Idaho, the landlord or the tenant?
Landlords in Idaho may deduct carpet-cleaning costs only when tenants leave stains, heavy dirt, or other issues beyond standard turnover cleaning. Routine carpet cleaning that occurs between tenants counts as normal wear and tear and does not justify a deduction.
What happens if a landlord doesn’t return a security deposit within 21 days in Idaho?
If a landlord fails to return the deposit or provide a proper itemized list of deductions within 21 days, or within a lease-extended limit of 30 days, the landlord loses the right to keep any portion of the deposit. The tenant may then pursue the full amount in court.
