Security deposit collection after a long time away

[gutless]

I vacated my apartment at the end of last July, whereupon I went to Europe. A month-long stay turned into an eight-month stay. Now I'm back, and I never collected my security deposit. (I had no idea how to get in touch with my landlord while I was overseas.) Does the law specify an "expiration date" for the retrieval of a security deposit? I haven't contacted him yet, and I'd like to know the facts before I do. I've browsed the resources herein but haven't been able to find an answer; any help is greatly appreciated.

cheers,
s