Delaware Security Deposit Remedies

Failure to remit the deposit or balance within the 20-day period can entitle the tenant to double the amount wrongfully withheld. Section 5514 also has separate consequences for failing to disclose or properly maintain the security-deposit escrow account.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20262 official sources cited

Late/wrongful withholding2× wrongfully withheld

Under § 5514(g)(1).

Escrow violationDeposit forfeiture can apply

The statute has a separate account-disclosure/deposit consequence.

Remedies depend on the exact failure

A late return, an unsupported damage deduction, missing forwarding address and an escrow-account violation are different statutory questions. Review the applicable subsection before drawing a conclusion.

Delaware rules depend on tenancy type and written notice facts. Educational information only.

Official sources

Delaware Code Online25 Del. C. § 5514 — Security deposit ↗

Current official Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code covering deposit limits, escrow, permissible deductions, the 20-day return/itemization rule, application fees and remedies.

Delaware CourtsLandlord/Tenant Help & Support ↗

Official Delaware Courts guidance confirming the 20-day deposit disposition framework and forwarding-address importance.

Related Delaware guides

Security Deposit →Deposit Limit →20-Day Rule →Forwarding Address →