Security Deposit in South Dakota
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Landlords must return deposits within 30 days or provide written notice of deductions.
How South Dakota treats Security Deposit
South Dakota requires landlords to return security deposits within 30 days of lease termination, minus any lawful deductions for damage or unpaid rent. The landlord must provide an itemized written statement explaining any deductions claimed. Interest on deposits is not required by state law. Deposits must be held in a separate account or clearly identified as tenant deposits.
The general definition of Security Deposit
Money a tenant pays upfront to a landlord as a guarantee against damage or unpaid rent.
A security deposit is cash that a tenant gives to a landlord at the start of a lease, held as insurance against property damage or unpaid rent. The landlord must keep this money in a separate account and return it to the tenant when the lease ends, minus any deductions for legitimate damages or unpaid bills. Most states have strict rules about how quickly landlords must return deposits (often 30–45 days) and require them to itemize any deductions. If a landlord wrongfully keeps the deposit, the tenant can sue for the full amount plus penalties.
Read the full Security Deposit entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in South Dakota.