Apartment Carpet Replacement Laws

Security Deposit

• Landlords can legally deduct amounts from your security deposit to replace carpet in the apartment you have vacated. Charges must be reasonable, and you cannot be held responsible for any damages to the carpet that were there when you moved into the apartment. Charging you to replace carpet that has only suffered from normal wear and tear is prohibited.

Statements

• Landlords who replace the carpet in your old apartment must provide you with copies of receipts for the charges incurred during the replacement, states the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Itemized statements are also required.

Time Frame

• Landlords have 21 days to refund your security deposit or provide you with itemized statements and receipts for the carpet replacement. Landlords who fail to provide your refund or receipts within this time frame lose their right to keep your security deposit, states the California Department of Consumer Affairs.