Security Deposits
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Icelandic Acts of the Althingi, statutory instruments, and official guidance.
Icelandic National Law
What is this right?
The Rent Act strictly regulates how much a landlord can require as a deposit and how it must be handled:
- Maximum: Cannot exceed 3 months' rent.
- Permitted forms: Direct monetary payment, bank guarantee, personal guarantee from a third party, insurance policy, or the Landlords' Mutual Insurance Fund.
- Storage: Monetary deposits must be placed in a separate, interest-bearing bank account. The landlord may not commingle it with personal funds.
- Return timeline: After the tenancy ends and keys are returned, the landlord has 4 weeks to submit any written claim against the deposit. If no claim is made within 4 weeks, the full deposit plus accrued interest must be returned.
- Permitted deductions: Unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning costs if premises are not returned in agreed condition.
When does it apply?
- Your landlord requests a security deposit at the start of a tenancy.
- You are ending a tenancy and awaiting return of your deposit.
What should you do?
- Request proof that your deposit is held in a separate, interest-bearing account.
- Conduct a move-out inspection with your landlord and photograph the property's condition.
- If your deposit is not returned within 4 weeks, send a written demand and contact the Housing Complaints Committee if needed.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't pay more than 3 months' rent as a deposit — any demand above that is unlawful.
- Don't accept verbal promises about the deposit — get everything in writing.
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