[littlesquirrel]

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!

[LisaB4657]

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.