North Carolina Security Deposit Timeline
Step-by-step deposit lifecycle from collection to return.
North Carolina law governs how landlords collect, hold, and return security deposits. The timeline below outlines the deposit lifecycle in chronological order — from move-in limits and pet deposits to deductions, itemization, interest, and the final return deadline.
Security Deposit Timeline
Maximum Deposit
2 weeks' rent (week-to-week); 1.5 months' rent (month-to-month); 2 months' rent (> 2 months)
Pet Deposit Rules
Reasonable non-refundable pet fee allowed (no specific limit).
Allowed Deductions
Damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, unpaid utilities, breach of lease, court costs, costs of removing possessions after eviction, and re-renting costs after breach.
Itemized Statement
Yes — landlords must provide a written itemized list of any deductions.
Interest Required
No — state law does not require interest on deposits.
Return Deadline
30 days (60 days if dispute over deductions)
Related Resources
Explore statutes, detailed rules, and calculators for this state.