A landlord must follow certain procedures and a timeline after the tenant has vacated the premises. These books and free websites explain California tenants’ rights and responsibilities, including return of security deposits.

• California Tenants Rights (Nolo Press), Self-Help Collection (SHC KFC145 .C37 and online in Legal Information Reference Center). Start with Chapter 13: Security Deposit’s and Last Month’s Rent

To find information online about the return of security deposits, start with the security deposits section on the California Courts Online Self-Help Center, click here.