Do this today
- Photograph the empty unit and the keys as you return them.
- Give a forwarding address in writing.
- Keep the lease, the deduction list, and proof of mailing.
- Open the California deposit chapter before you treat a blog as the clock.
Who sets the deposit rule in San Diego?
Usually California — California Civil Code — hiring of real property. Some cities add their own itemization or holding rules. Do not import Los Angeles RSO rules into San Diego. Ask the City whether your unit is covered by a local program. This desk names the chapter. It does not reprint a cap or a day-count.
What evidence actually matters?
Move-in and move-out photos with dates, the lease, the forwarding address you gave, proof you returned the keys, and any deduction list. A text argument without photos is a weak file.
The San Diego layer
Do not import Los Angeles RSO rules into San Diego. Ask the City whether your unit is covered by a local program.
California Civil Code — hiring of real property (Cal. Civ. Code §§ 1940 to 1954.06) is the California floor. We name it. We do not paraphrase a day-count or a dollar cap out of it.
San Diego questions
How do I get my security deposit back in San Diego?
Photograph the unit, return the keys as the lease requires, and give a forwarding address in writing. The clock and the cap live mainly in California Civil Code — hiring of real property. Do not import Los Angeles RSO rules into San Diego. Ask the City whether your unit is covered by a local program.
Does San Diego set its own deposit deadline?
Sometimes a city adds a rule; often it does not. Do not import Los Angeles RSO rules into San Diego. Ask the City whether your unit is covered by a local program. Confirm with City of San Diego — Housing Commission / renter resources and the California chapter. We do not invent a day-count.
What number should I call in San Diego?
Danger: 911. Mental-health crisis: 988. City services: 311. Court papers: LawHelp.org the same day. City of San Diego — Housing Commission / renter resources does not replace legal aid when a case is filed.
National answers on this desk
Last reviewed 8 September 2026. Legal information, not legal advice. Not a law firm. hello@renterprotection.org