Security Deposit Laws in Lithuania: Landlord Guidelines
Practical guide to security deposit laws in Lithuania, covering limits, return timelines, and valid deduction reasons.
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Security deposits are a standard aspect of renting residential property in Lithuania. While the Civil Code does not impose strict statutory limits on the amount a landlord can collect, specific best practices and market norms govern how deposits must be handled.
Maximum Deposit Amounts
Unlike some European countries, Lithuania does not have a statutory cap on residential security deposits. However, standard market practice dictates a security deposit equivalent to 1 to 2 months' rent. Demanding deposits higher than two months is uncommon and may deter potential tenants. The exact amount must be clearly stated in the written tenancy agreement.
Purpose of the Security Deposit In Lithuania, the security deposit functions as a financial guarantee for the landlord against: - Unpaid rent or utility bills - Property damage beyond normal wear and tear - Breach of the lease agreement resulting in financial loss
Collecting the Deposit When collecting the deposit, landlords should adhere to the following best practices:
- Written Agreement: State the deposit amount, acceptable forms of payment, and conditions for its return in the lease.
- Receipts: Provide the tenant with a receipt or proof of transfer upon receiving the deposit funds.
- Handover Protocol (Act of Transfer): It is critical to complete a detailed move-in inventory report, supplemented with photographs, documenting the property's condition. Both parties must sign this document.
Deductions from the Deposit Landlords may deduct funds from the security deposit for legitimate costs incurred due to the tenant's negligence or breach of contract. Allowable deductions typically include: - Unpaid rent or outstanding utility charges - Repairing damage caused by the tenant or their guests - Extraordinary cleaning costs if the property is left in an unhygienic state Prohibited deductions:
- Normal wear and tear: Landlords cannot charge for the natural deterioration of the property (e.g., slightly worn carpets or minor scuffs on walls). - Upgrades or renovations that enhance the property's value beyond its pre-lease state.
Returning the Deposit The timeline and procedure for returning the security deposit should be outlined in the lease agreement. Generally, the deposit must be returned promptly (often within 14 to 30 days) after the tenancy ends and the tenant vacates the property. To help a smooth return process:
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Conduct a joint move-out inspection using the original Handover Protocol.
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Provide the tenant with an itemized list of any deductions.
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Return the remaining balance via bank transfer or other agreed-upon method.
Failure to Return the Deposit If a landlord unlawfully withholds the security deposit, the tenant has the right to take the matter to court. Given the costs and time involved in legal proceedings, clear documentation-such as thorough inventory checks and itemized receipts for repairs-is required for resolving disputes amicably.
Getting Started with Compliance To minimize deposit disputes, maintain meticulous records of your property's condition. Using Landager's document management tools helps ensure that your lease agreements and Handover Protocols are securely stored and readily accessible.
How Landager Helps
Landager automates your Centre of Registers filing deadlines, tracks CPI-based rent escalations, and ensures your residential property meets all Lithuanian Civil Code requirements.
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