If there is no damage claim, when must the security deposit be returned after the tenant vacates?

• A. 15 days
• B. 30 days
• C. 60 days
• D. 90 days

Answer: (A)

In Florida, security deposits that aren’t being used to cover damages must be returned promptly after the tenant leaves. If there is no claim for damages, the landlord is required to return the full security deposit within 15 days after the tenant vacates the premises. This short deadline protects the tenant’s funds and prevents the landlord from withholding the deposit longer than necessary. If there were damages, the process would involve notifying the tenant of any deductions and handling the remaining balance, but the no-damage scenario centers on that 15-day return window.