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How to get your rental security deposit back in Latvia

Published: 27 September 2026 · Sources checked: 27 September 2026

In short

In Latvia a security deposit secures the landlord's claims under the tenancy — for example unpaid rent, utility bills or damage beyond normal wear and tear. After the tenancy ends the landlord should return it, less only justified deductions. If the landlord refuses without explaining, send a written demand and, if needed, claim it in court; small claims can use a simplified procedure.

What the landlord can deduct

Deductions must relate to actual obligations under the contract: unpaid rent, unpaid utilities, or repairing damage you caused. Normal wear and tear is generally not damage. The deposit amount and return terms are set by the Residential Tenancy Law (Section 12) and your contract — check the current wording on likumi.lv.

Evidence that decides deposit disputes

The strongest evidence is a signed handover report at move-in and move-out with dated photos and meter readings. Without it, a dispute becomes your word against the landlord's.

What evidence to keep

  • Tenancy contract and proof of deposit payment.
  • Move-in and move-out handover reports with photos.
  • Final meter readings and paid utility bills.
  • Correspondence with the landlord about the deposit.

Step by step

  1. Ask in writing for the deposit or an itemised list of deductions with receipts.
  2. Set a reasonable deadline and keep proof of sending.
  3. If there is no answer, file a claim in court — the simplified procedure suits small amounts.

Exceptions and caveats

  • If the contract was never put in writing, you must prove the deposit through bank transfers or messages.
  • Unpaid bills that arrive after move-out may be lawfully set off.

Is your situation different?

Describe the deposit, the deductions and your evidence — LexAI will outline the next steps under Latvian law.

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First 20 questions free. It is an AI answer based on official sources, not a lawyer's advice.

Official sources

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This is general information on Latvian law prepared with AI assistance, not legal advice and not a guarantee of any result. Laws change — check the current version in official sources before acting.