What are the laws governing the return of tenants' security deposits?

In Alaska, landlords are required by law to return a tenant’s security deposit within 14 days of the tenant’s moving date. If the landlord cannot return the entire amount due to justified deductions, the amount of the deductions must be listed in a written statement and the remainder of the deposit must be returned. Landlords are generally allowed to make deductions from a tenant’s deposit for unpaid rent, cleaning fees, and damages caused by the tenant to the property, beyond normal wear and tear. If a tenant fails to give the landlord a forwarding address, the landlord has up to 30 days to return the deposit. Both the landlord and the tenant should keep records and proof of the security deposit payment and any deductions made. This includes receipts for repairs or replacements made, photos of the property before and after the tenant moved in, and any evidence of unpaid rent or damages. While landlords in Alaska are required to follow guidelines regarding the return of deposits, tenants should be aware that disputes may arise over the deductions taken by the landlord. If a tenant and landlord cannot agree on the amount of the deposit to be returned, the tenant may take the landlord to court to resolve the dispute.

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What are the laws governing the return of tenants' security deposits?

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