How long must security deposits be held after a tenant vacates?

In South Dakota, landlords are required to return a tenant's security deposit within a specific timeframe after the tenant has vacated the property. The correct duration for holding a security deposit, as outlined in South Dakota's landlord-tenant laws, is 14 days. This period allows landlords to reasonably inspect the property for any damages or required cleaning that might justify withholding part or all of the deposit. If any deductions from the security deposit are necessary, landlords must provide an itemized list of the damages or deductions along with the remaining balance within this 14-day window. This requirement helps protect tenants by ensuring they receive their funds in a timely manner and have transparency regarding any deductions that may occur.

The other options suggest different timeframes which do not align with the legal requirements set forth in South Dakota law, making them incorrect.