Short answer: Your Kentucky landlord's policy doesn't cover your belongings. Kentucky's deposit rules in KRS 383.580 are part of the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Under KRS 383.500, that act applies only where a city, county or urban-county government has adopted it. Where it applies, deposits must be kept in a separate account, and you must get signed damage listings at move-in and move-out. A landlord who skips these steps can't keep any part of the deposit.
This guide is general information for Kentucky renters. It isn't legal advice, and local ordinances can add rules. Your lease and policy wording control.
Your landlord's policy covers the building, not your belongings or liability. A renters policy (HO-4) covers personal property, personal liability and loss of use; flood is generally excluded (see FloodSmart). Coverage basics: renters insurance. Roommates: whether renters insurance covers roommates. Liability: how much renters liability coverage you need.
Step 1: Does the act apply where you live?
Under KRS 383.500, cities, counties and urban-county governments are authorized to adopt the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Check with your local government whether it has done so.
Step 2: Separate account and move-in listing
Under KRS 383.580, the landlord must keep deposits in an account used only for that purpose and tell you where it is and its account number. Before you pay, you must get a comprehensive listing of existing damage with estimated repair costs. You may inspect the unit, and both of you sign the list. If you disagree, sign a written statement of the specific items you dissent from.
Step 3: Move-out listing
At move-out, the landlord inspects and compiles a damage listing with estimated costs. You can inspect and sign, or sign a specific written dissent. You may only dispute items you specifically dissented from in court. If the landlord didn't use a separate account and provide both listings, they can't keep any part of the deposit.
Step 4: Watch for the notice
- If you owe no rent and a refund is due, the landlord sends a notice of the refund amount to your last known address. If you don't respond within 60 days, the landlord may keep the deposit.
- If you leave without paying the last month's rent and don't demand the deposit, the landlord may apply it to the debt after 30 days.
Step 5: Storms and floods
Renters insurance typically covers your belongings for wind and fire. Flood is generally excluded; see FloodSmart.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Kentucky.
Frequently asked questions
Do Kentucky's deposit rules apply everywhere?
No. KRS 383.580 applies where a local government has adopted the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
What happens if I don't respond to my Kentucky landlord's refund notice?
After 60 days without a response, the landlord may keep the deposit.
Should I sign the Kentucky move-out damage list?
Sign it, or sign a written statement of the specific items you dissent from. Only dissented items can be disputed in court.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.