Your landlord can't ask for more than the deposit you paid at the start.
Depends on the year the building was built.
From Cudahy Mun. Code § 5.13.090, read Oct 4, 2026.Show the law
“Landlord may not demand or receive a security deposit, however denominated, in an amount or value in
excess of the security deposit charged or received at the initiation of the tenancy …”
Your landlord can't ask for more than the deposit you paid at the start.
Depends on the year the building was built.
Who it covers
Buildings with a first certificate of occupancy on or before Feb 1, 1995.
Not owner-occupied buildings with 2 units or fewer.
Covers: Covers rental units subject to chapter 5.13.
Exemptions: Same exemptions as § 5.13.040.
In force since
2023
The law, word for word
“Landlord may not demand or receive a security deposit, however denominated, in an amount or value in
excess of the security deposit charged or received at the initiation of the tenancy …”
California security deposit cap and handling (AB 12)
How big can the deposit be?
Max 1 month's rent.
An individual owner (2 rentals, 4 units at most) may ask for 2 months, but not from a service member.
Who it covers
Covers: Security for rental agreements of residential property used as the tenant's dwelling.
In force since
Jul 1, 2024
Current version since
Jan 1, 2026
The law, word for word
“a landlord shall not demand or receive security, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of an amount equal to one month’s rent, in addition to any rent for the first month paid on or before initial occupancy …”