📜 Civil Code (general rules) · Awareness case
Security Deposit Recovery Dispute at Lease End · Yalla China
🤝 Governing law: القانون المدني / Civil Code of China (2021) Art. 730-738 + Housing Rental Regulations
China's Civil Code guarantees the tenant the right to full security deposit recovery at lease end, unless there is documented damage beyond normal wear and tear.
Illustrative, general educational examples — not real specific facts and not legal advice; for awareness only. For an actual situation, consult a licensed lawyer.
Under the Civil Code (2021) and housing rental regulations, the landlord must return the security deposit within 7-14 days of key handover. The landlord may deduct repair costs for: (1) damage from unusual use (holes in walls, appliance damage from negligence); (2) unpaid utility bills. Damage attributable to normal wear and tear (paint fading, minor scratches) is the landlord's responsibility. Necessary documentation: (1) apartment inspection record at move-in + photos; (2) inspection record at move-out + photos; (3) paid utility bills. In case of dispute: Housing Dispute Mediation Center or courts.
🎓 The lesson / takeaway
Take comprehensive photos of the apartment's condition on move-in day and move-out day. This evidence is decisive in any deposit dispute.
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026