Delaware Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
Delaware's Residential Landlord-Tenant Code provides comprehensive regulations for rental housing. The state has specific requirements for security deposits, property maintenance, and detailed lease procedures.
Security Deposit
Limit: No statutory limit on security deposits, but must be reasonable. Some local ordinances may have limits.
Return Period: 20 days after termination of tenancy. Must provide itemized statement of damages. If landlord fails to comply, tenant may recover twice the withheld amount.
Rent Increases
60 days notice required for month-to-month tenancies. Must follow lease terms for fixed-term leases.
Entry Notice
2 days notice required for entry, except in emergencies.
Key Statutes
- Delaware Code Title 25 §5514 - Security Deposits
- Delaware Code Title 25 §5305 - Landlord Obligations
- Delaware Code Title 25 §5509 - Right of Entry
- Delaware Code Title 25 §5701 - Eviction Process
Common Issues
- Not returning deposits within 20 days
- Not providing 60-day notice for rent increases
- Failure to provide itemized deductions
- Entering without 2-day notice
- Not maintaining habitability standards