Rental deposit
A deposit (tagatisraha) on a home rental can be no more than three months' rent, and the tenant may pay it in three parts. The landlord keeps it in a bank, separate from their own money, and the interest belongs to the tenant. If the landlord has not told you of any claims within 2 months of the lease ending, you can demand the deposit back.
How much and how it is paid
A deposit on a home rental can be no more than three months' rent (VÕS § 308).
The tenant may pay it in three equal parts over 3 months, the first after the lease is signed. With the landlord's consent the deposit can be replaced by another guarantee of equal value.
Where the deposit is kept
The landlord must keep the deposit in a bank, separate from their own money, at no less than the average local interest rate. The interest belongs to the tenant and is added to the deposit.
The deposit and its interest are not part of the landlord's bankruptcy estate, and the landlord's creditors cannot claim them.
Refund and deductions
If the landlord has not told the tenant about any claims within 2 months of the lease ending, the tenant can demand the deposit back.
The tenant is not liable for normal wear and tear from ordinary use (VÕS § 334). If a handover report was drawn up at move-in, the flat is presumed to have been handed over in the condition it describes — so write everything down and take photos. The deposit cannot be used to cover a contractual penalty for non-financial breaches (VÕS § 287 lg 5).
If the landlord used the deposit for a claim, they can ask you to top it up to the agreed amount — again in parts over 3 months. Deposit disputes are decided by a rent committee (Tallinn has one, the üürikomisjon) or a court.
Frequently asked questions
- How big can a rental deposit be in Estonia?
- No more than three months' rent (VÕS § 308). The tenant may pay it in three equal parts over 3 months.
- When do I get my deposit back?
- If the landlord has not told you of any claims within 2 months of the lease ending, you can demand the deposit back with its interest.
- Can the landlord keep the deposit for wear and tear?
- The tenant is not liable for normal wear and tear from ordinary use (VÕS § 334). To avoid a dispute, record the flat's condition in a handover report at move-in and take photos.
- Where can I go if my deposit is not returned?
- To a rent committee — Tallinn has one, the üürikomisjon — or to court.
This is general information, not legal advice: in a dispute, talk to a lawyer or a notary.
Sources: Võlaõigusseadus (VÕS), Riigi Teataja, действует с 01.09.2026. Checked on 26 Oct 2026.
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