Compliance, deposits, and the rules in your state.
State-by-state guides for landlords who'd rather get the lease right than re-litigate it later.
First-time landlord?
Start with our 22-minute operating-sequence guide before reading any state-specific post. It's the entry point that tells you which posts you actually need.
Recently published guides
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Illinois security deposit law (2026) — the 30/45-day rule
Since 2024, Illinois' 30-day itemization and 45-day return deadlines bind every landlord, not just 5+ unit buildings. The rules, the math, and the 2× penalty.
~8 min read
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California eviction timeline — from 3-day notice to writ
California's "3-day" pay-or-quit counts only court days, tenants now get 10 days to answer, and LA adds its own threshold. The unlawful detainer process, step by step.
~5 min read
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California security deposit law — AB 12's one-month cap, explained
AB 12 capped most California deposits at one month, AB 2801 added mandatory photos, and AB 414 changed refunds — what § 1950.5 requires in 2026.
~6 min read