The San Francisco security deposit demand letter that gets deposits back.
Your San Francisco 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 Francisco 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 →
Extra protection in San Francisco
San Francisco's Rent Ordinance requires annual interest payments on security deposits for most units.
If the landlord ignores your letter
Deposit claims from San Francisco go to the Small Claims Division of the San Francisco County Superior Court — designed for tenants without lawyers.
San Francisco at a glance
Population ~809,000 (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.