New Mexico landlord forms / Security Deposit Return Letter
New Mexico Security Deposit Return Letter
$19An itemized security deposit return letter, timed to your state's statutory deadline — this is the single most litigated moment in a tenancy, and missing the deadline or itemization requirement can cost a landlord the right to keep any of the deposit.
Core state figures — deposit caps, notice periods, entry rules — independently verified by a licensed U.S. attorney.
What New Mexico law requires
- Security deposit cap
- 1 month' rentNMSA 1978 § 47-8-18(A) · source
- Deposit return deadline
- 30 days after move-outNMSA 1978 § 47-8-18(C)-(E) · source
- Month-to-month termination notice
- 30 daysNMSA 1978 § 47-8-37(A)-(B) · source
- Pay-or-quit notice (late rent)
- 3 daysNMSA 1978 § 47-8-33(D), (H) · source
- Landlord entry notice
- 1 dayNMSA 1978 § 47-8-24(A)-(B) · source
- Late fee guidance
- 5% of monthly rentNMSA 1978 § 47-8-15(D) · source
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Most states penalize a late or non-itemized return — commonly forfeiting the right to withhold any amount, sometimes with additional statutory damages. Deadlines vary by state; this document is timed to yours.
Do I need to itemize every deduction?
Yes, in virtually every state — a vague "cleaning and repairs" line is not sufficient. List each deduction separately with its own amount.
Need more than one document?
The Complete Landlord Pack includes this document plus 5 more for New Mexico, with unlimited edits for 12 months.
See the New Mexico pack