In Türkiye, rental deposits serve as a financial guarantee for landlords to secure their properties against potential damages or unpaid obligations. According to the Turkish Code of Obligations, the maximum allowable deposit amount is the equivalent of three months’ rent.
When Can a Landlord Legally Deduct from a Deposit?
There are specific and legally defined situations in which a landlord may partially or fully withhold a tenant’s deposit:
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If the tenant leaves the property with damage
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If there are unpaid utility bills (electricity, water, gas, etc.)
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If there are outstanding rent payments
However, these deductions must be fully documented. For example, if there’s damage to the property, the landlord must prove it with photos or an expert report. Simply claiming “the tenant didn’t repaint” is not sufficient evidence and is often rejected in court rulings.
Legal Timeframe for Refunds
After the tenant vacates the property, the landlord has a maximum of 3 months to either prove damage or refund the full deposit. Failure to present evidence within this timeframe obligates the landlord to return the deposit in full.
For foreign investors or individuals considering buying property in Istanbul or renting before making a real estate investment in Türkiye, understanding tenant rights and landlord responsibilities—especially regarding deposits—is essential. Legal clarity helps build trust and transparency in the property market.
