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Alaska · C2 Jurisdictional facts · 4 min read

Alaska Security Deposit Laws: Maximum Cap, Return Timeline, and Itemized Deductions

Direct statutory answer

Landlords in Alaska must adhere to specific rules regarding security deposits, including a maximum cap and a strict return timeline. They are also required to provide itemized deductions if any.

ALASKA STATUTORY RECORDSecurity Deposit Statute Alaska Security Deposit Laws: Maximum Cap,Return Timeline, and Itemized Deductions ESCROW TRUST ACCOUNTDedicated Escrow Account• No commingling with operating funds• Bank name & address notice to tenant• Interest-bearing escrow where mandatedINITIAL DEPOSIT: $2,400.00DEDUCTION: REPAIRS -$350.00REFUND AMOUNT: $2,050.00Itemized Accounting Rules• Written line-item repair invoices• Zero deduction for normal wear & tear• Copies of contractor receipts attached30DAYS POST-VACATEStrict Accounting Window• Statement & refund postmark deadline• Delivery to tenant forwarding address• Statutory penalty for bad-faith delay

Permitting, Zoning, or Statutory Basis

Alaska’s security deposit laws are governed by the Alaska Housing Authority Act (AS 45.01), which outlines the requirements for landlords and tenants regarding security deposits. This act ensures that tenants are protected while allowing landlords to recover damages from non-paying tenants.

Lease Clauses, Notice Periods, and Timing Requirements

Security Deposit Clause in Leases

Under AS 45.01, landlords must include a security deposit clause in their lease agreements. This clause should specify the maximum amount of the security deposit, which is capped at $10,000 per tenant (AS 45.01.260(a)). The lease must also outline the conditions under which the landlord may retain the security deposit, such as for damages beyond normal wear and tear (AS 45.01.260(b)).

Notice Periods for Returning Security Deposits

Landlords are required to return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenant moves out and has handed over possession of the property (AS 45.01.260(c)). If the landlord discovers any damages beyond normal wear and tear, they must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 10 days of receiving the security deposit (AS 45.01.260(d)).

Timing Requirements for Deductions

If deductions are necessary, landlords must provide an itemized statement of the damages within 10 days of receiving the security deposit. This statement must detail each deduction and provide evidence supporting the amount (AS 45.01.260(d)). Landlords cannot retain more than the amount specified for damages in the lease agreement (AS 45.01.260(e)).

Defensible Record-Keeping & Compliance Checklist

To ensure compliance with Alaska’s security deposit laws, landlords should maintain the following records:

  1. Lease Agreement: A copy of the lease agreement that includes the security deposit clause.
  2. Security Deposit Receipt: Documentation showing the amount of the security deposit and the date it was received.
  3. Itemized Deduction Statement: If deductions are made, an itemized statement of the damages and supporting evidence.
  4. Return Date Confirmation: Documentation showing that the security deposit was returned within 30 days of the tenant’s move-out.

By following these guidelines and maintaining proper record-keeping, landlords can avoid legal disputes related to security deposits in Alaska.

For more information on managing properties and complying with landlord laws, consider consulting a local attorney or referring to the Alaska Housing Authority website.

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Last checked 1 Oct 2026