How much can a landlord charge for a deposit in Nova Scotia?

No more than half of one month's rent. Landlords can't charge additional cleaning, key, or pet deposits on top of the security deposit.

When do I get my deposit back in Nova Scotia?

Within 10 days of the tenancy ending if the landlord has no claim. If they want to keep part of it, they must apply to the Residential Tenancies Program rather than just withholding it.

Does my deposit earn interest in Nova Scotia?

Yes. The landlord must pay interest at the province's set rate, added when the deposit is returned.

What if my landlord won't return my deposit in Nova Scotia?

Apply to the Residential Tenancies Program. Move-in and move-out photos and any inspection notes are strong evidence.

Home BlogNova Scotia Security Deposits

Nova ScotiaSeptember 11, 20265 min read

Nova Scotia Security Deposit Rules: Half a Month & Refunds

Nova Scotia caps what a landlord can hold and sets a tight deadline to return it. Here's what a landlord can charge, what they can keep, and how to recover your deposit through the Residential Tenancies Program.

By the LeasePlain Editorial Team · Checked against Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act per our editorial standards·Last reviewed September 2026

How Much Can They Charge?

In Nova Scotia a security deposit can't exceed half of one month's rent. A landlord can't demand more, and can't stack extra cleaning, key, or pet deposits on top.

Your Deposit Earns Interest

The landlord must hold your deposit and pay interest at the rate set by the province. It's added when the deposit is returned.

The 10-Day Return Rule

After your tenancy ends, the landlord generally has 10 days to return your deposit if they have no claim. If they want to keep some or all of it, they must apply to the Residential Tenancies Program — they can't simply hold it.

What They Can Deduct

Deductions are limited to:

Unpaid rent owing at the end of the tenancy.
Damage beyond normal wear and tear.
Not normal wear and tear — faded paint, worn carpet, minor marks.

If There's a Dispute

If the landlord won't return your deposit, apply to the Residential Tenancies Program (Director of Residential Tenancies). Photos at move-in and move-out are your strongest evidence.