Security deposit rules in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the deposit is at most 2 months of rent for a lease, 1.5 months for month to month. In North Carolina, the deposit and its itemized list are due within 30 days of move-out.
Checked against North Carolina law on Oct 28, 2026.
What North Carolina law says
What is the most a landlord can charge for a security deposit in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the deposit is at most 2 months of rent for a lease, 1.5 months for month to month.
Source: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-51(b), read Oct 28, 2026.
How long does a landlord in North Carolina have to return a security deposit?
In North Carolina, the deposit and its itemized list are due within 30 days of move-out.
Source: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-52, read Oct 28, 2026.
Check your city's rules too: a city or county can set stricter limits. This is general information, not legal advice.