Rental Deposit: Maximum Amount and How It Is Returned

Short answer: The rental security (deposit) can be at most three months' rent. If given in cash, it must be held in a term account at a bank in the tenant's name; the landlord cannot add this money to their own account (TBK art. 342).

The rules

• Upper limit: Three months' rent. More cannot be demanded; any excess can be reclaimed.
• Bank account: The money is held in a term account and, with its interest, belongs to the tenant.
• Acting together: When the lease ends, the bank will not release the money without both parties' consent or a court decision.

Return

When the lease ends and the home is handed over, if the landlord makes no claim (damage, unpaid bills, rent), the security is returned to the tenant. If there is a claim, the parties agree or go to enforcement or court. That is why a handover record and photos are important documents at handover.

Practical tips

1. Instead of giving the deposit to the landlord in person, pay it into a joint bank account.
2. Write the amount of the deposit and its bank in the rental contract.
3. Prepare and photograph an inventory list when handing over the home.
4. At handover, get a document showing that the bills have been settled.

For details, see our article how a rental contract is prepared.

Frequently asked questions

Can the deposit be offset against rent?

The tenant cannot on their own count the last month's rent against the deposit; the landlord's consent is required.

Who owns the interest?

The interest earned in the term account belongs to the tenant, together with the security.

What if the home is handed back damaged?

The landlord can document the damage and assert it as a claim; if the parties cannot agree, they go to the legal route.

Sources: mevzuat.gov.tr · tuik.gov.tr

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice; legislation and practice may change. Compiled as of October 2026. For your specific case, contact us or consult a lawyer.