CA Civil Code 1950.5 states, " No later than 21 calendar days after the tenant has vacated the premises, but not earlier than the time that either the landlord or the tenant provides a notice to terminate the tenancy under Section 1946 or 1946.1"

I understand that the landlord has 21 days to return my deposit. Does this 21 day period begin the day my lease it up or the day I have returned the keys and informed the landlord I am no longer dwelling at the residence?

Situation: I had a year lease through 8/31/07. I gave notice of intent to move mid-July of 07. I paid August rent, as per my lease. My landlord contacted me to say he had someone interested in moving in sooner than the first of September and could I be out earlier. I sent, certified mail, the keys that I have delivery confirmation he received on 8/10/07. It is now 9/24 and I have seen no letter nor refund. I would like to know when the 21 day period would have started.

Thanks!

The time begins on the date that you turn over possession of the premises to the landlord. So the landlord should have returned your deposit, or a written, detailed accounting of your deposit, no later than September 1.