State rules
Alabama Security Deposit Rules
Landlord obligations under Ala. Code §§ 35-9A-201, 35-9A-161
Deposit limit
1 month's rent
1 month's rent, plus uncapped additional amounts for pets, premises alterations, or increased liability risk
How the deposit limit varies
| Scenario | Maximum deposit | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Base security deposit | 1 month's rent | — |
| Additional amounts for pets, premises alterations, or increased liability risk | No statutory limit | the statute exempts money collected as security for these three purposes from the 1-month cap (§ 35-9A-201(a)) |
- The carve-outs are purpose-based (what the money secures), not tenancy-type tiers — security taken for pets, tenant changes to the premises, or increased liability risk sits outside the 1-month cap entirely.
Source: Ala. Code § 35-9A-201(a) (1-month base + uncapped pet/alteration/liability carve-outs), for the figures shown above. This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a Alabama attorney for specific guidance.
Deposit limit verified against Ala. Code § 35-9A-201(a) (1-month base + uncapped pet/alteration/liability carve-outs) as of Jul 24, 2026.