Oregon Security Deposit Demand Letter
A free Oregon security deposit demand letter that follows Oregon law. Fill in the boxes, check the rules below, then print or copy it. Keep a copy and proof of how you sent it.
What Oregon law says
| Deposit return deadline | 31 days after the tenancy terminates and the tenant delivers possession. Source: ORS 90.300(12)-(13) |
|---|---|
| Itemized deductions | Within the same 31 days, the landlord must give a written accounting stating specifically the basis of each claim. Deductions are limited to amounts reasonably necessary to remedy tenant defaults (including unpaid rent) or repair damage beyond ordinary wear and tear. Source: ORS 90.300(7), (12) |
| Penalty for withholding | Twice the amount withheld without a written accounting, or twice the amount withheld in bad faith. Source: ORS 90.300(16) |
| Wear and tear / move-out charges | The landlord may claim from the deposit only the amount reasonably necessary to remedy the tenant's defaults under the rental agreement (including unpaid rent) and to repair damage caused by the tenant, 'not including ordinary wear and tear.' Labor charges for cleaning or repairs must be at a reasonable hourly rate. Machine carpet cleaning may be deducted only if the carpet was cleaned or replaced before the tenant moved in and the written rental agreement provides for the deduction regardless of whether the tenant cleans. The landlord need not actually make a repair to deduct its cost. Source: ORS 90.300(7) |
Fill in your letter
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To: [landlord or manager name], [landlord address]
From: [your name], former tenant at [rental address]
I moved out and returned the keys on [move-out date]. I paid a security deposit of $[deposit amount]. I gave you my forwarding address in writing on [date you gave your address].
Under ORS 90.300(12)-(13), a landlord must return the deposit, or send an itemized list of lawful deductions, by the deadline set in that law. I have not received [the deposit / an itemized list].
Please send $[amount owed] to [forwarding address] within [number] days of this letter.
If I do not receive it, I plan to file a claim in small claims court and ask for any additional amount allowed by ORS 90.300(16).
Date: [today's date]
Tenant: [your name]
Signature: ____________________
How to send it: use a method you can prove — certified mail with return receipt, or email/text if your lease allows notices that way. Write down the date.
Security Deposit Demand Letter templates for other states · All Oregon landlord-tenant rules · Free legal help in Oregon
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.