The San Bernardino security deposit demand letter that gets deposits back.
Your San Bernardino landlord must act within 21 days after the tenant vacates under Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5. If they missed it, the statute is written on your side. We cite the statute, mail your demand USPS Certified, and track the response.
The law that protects your deposit
Deposits in San Bernardino are governed by California state law: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5. Bad-faith retention can add a penalty of up to twice the deposit, on top of actual damages. Full California deadline & penalty guide →
If the landlord ignores your letter
Deposit claims from San Bernardino go to the Small Claims Division of the San Bernardino County Superior Court — designed for tenants without lawyers.
San Bernardino at a glance
Population ~222,000 (U.S. Census 2024 estimate, rounded). Every deposit dispute here runs on the same clock: the 21-day statutory window — and a certified letter is the documented first step.
General legal information, not legal advice. City-specific ordinances change; verify current rules or consult a licensed California attorney.