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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Massachusetts security deposit law — the strictest rules in America
Massachusetts caps deposits at one month and stacks procedural duties — separate account, statement of condition, 5% interest — with treble damages for mistakes.
~6 min read
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Michigan security deposit law — the 45-day sue-or-forfeit rule
Michigan caps deposits at 1.5 months and runs on deadlines — 14-day notice, 30-day itemized list, and a 45-day lawsuit window most landlords have never heard of.
~6 min read
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Colorado security deposit law — the 2026 rules landlords must know
Colorado's 2026 deposit rules (HB25-1249): return in one month, no charges for normal wear or cleaning, and treble damages for willful over-withholding.
~5 min read