Traveling or moving for a short stay in Europe? Here’s what you need to know about deposits for renting a place in Spain, Italy, Germany, France, and Portugal.
What Is the Security Deposit?
A security deposit is money you give the landlord when you move in. It’s meant to cover any damage or unpaid rent. If everything is fine at check-out, you should get it back in a couple of weeks.
How Do Deposits Work In Each Country for Short term rentals?
Spain
- Deposit amount: Usually 1 month’s rent for rooms in shared apartments, 2 months for other types or if pets are accommodated.
- Who holds it: Landlord or landlord’s agent. In some regions, you must register the deposit with a government housing body. Spotahome does not hold your deposit.
- Time to return: 30 days max after the lease ends to check the property and return the deposit if all is good.
- If there’s damage: The landlord can keep part or all until repairs are paid.
- Anything Special? There’s no government program to hold your deposit safely. From 2025, all rentals must be registered for more protection.
Italy
- Deposit amount: Usually 2–3 months’ rent.
- Who holds it: The landlord, no official third-party protection.
- Time to return: The law says landlords should give the deposit back "promptly," but typically within 2 months after the lease ends.
- If there’s damage: Landlord can keep what is necessary to cover repair costs.
- Anything Special? Always make sure to get a contract and inventory of items and check all details. No official deposit protection.
Germany
- Deposit amount: Maximum 3 months' rent (rent excluding bills).
- Who holds it: Must be in a special blocked bank account, separate from the landlord’s money, and earns interest.
- Time to return: Generally within 6 months, though courts accept some delay to finalize damage costs.
- If there’s damage: Landlord can keep deposit or part to cover repairs.
- Anything Special? Germany has the strongest deposit protection. You should even get some extra money (interest) when it’s returned!
France
- Deposit amount: Usually 1 month’s rent for unfurnished, 2 months for furnished rentals; vacation rentals capped at ~20–25% of rent.
- Who holds it: Landlord or agency.
- Time to return: Within 1 month if no deductions; up to 2 months if landlord claims damages.
- If there’s damage: Deduction must be documented and justified.
- Anything Special? There’s a law on how fast you get it back: 1 month (no problems) or 2 months (if they claim damage). No special deposit protection system, but you can go to court if they won’t return it.
Portugal
- Deposit amount: No legal maximum but usually 1–2 months’ rent.
- Who holds it: Landlord holds the deposit directly.
- Time to return: Typically within 30 days after the lease ends.
- If there’s damage: Landlord may deduct repair or unpaid bills costs.
- Anything Special? No official protection. Make sure the contract says how, when, and why your deposit gets returned. Take photos when you move in and out to protect yourself.
Final Tips for Young Renters
- Always insist on a written rental contract.
- Pay your deposit by a traceable method and keep the receipt.
- Take detailed photos or videos at move-in and move-out.
- Ask your landlord or platform about their exact deposit return process.
- Use reputable platforms that help solve disputes if problems arise.
By knowing your rights and deadlines, you can enjoy your stay without worrying about losing your deposit unfairly!
Want to avoid deposit worries? Book your verified rental safely on Spotahome.
This guide is based on laws and regulations as of July 2025 and may vary by region within each country.