SD · Security Deposit Law
Security deposit laws in South Dakota
14 days (45 for itemization); 2x + attorney fees for bad-faith.
Return deadline
14 days
Itemization required
Yes
Bad-faith multiplier
2×
What to do if your South Dakota landlord won't return your deposit
- Confirm the 14-day window has passed since you provided a forwarding address.
- Document the unit's move-out condition with photos and any walk-through notes.
- Send a formal demand letter citing South Dakota's deposit return deadline and statutory damages.
- If the landlord ignores your demand, file in small claims court — South Dakota allows up to 2x damages for wrongful withholding.