Security Deposit Small Claims Calculator — Canada

Yes. If your landlord fails to return your security deposit without valid cause, small claims court (or your province's landlord-tenant tribunal) is the proper venue. In Ontario, use the Landlord and Tenant Board. In BC, use the Residential Tenancy Branch. In Alberta, if the LRB process fails, small claims court in Alberta handles disputes up to $100,000.

Landlords can only deduct for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and unpaid utility bills (if specified in the lease). They cannot deduct for normal wear and tear (carpet worn from use, paint faded over time, minor scuffs), cleaning if the unit was left in reasonable condition, or repairs that were the landlord's responsibility.

Timelines vary: Ontario (10 days after lease end or after tenant provides forwarding address), BC (15 days after the later of mutual inspection or end of tenancy), Alberta (10 days if no deductions, or 30 days with itemized statement). Missing these deadlines can cause the landlord to forfeit their right to make deductions in some provinces.