Colorado Security Deposit Laws
Complete guide to security deposit rules, deadlines, and tenant rights in Colorado.
60
Days to Return
No statutory limit
Max Deposit
Yes
Itemization Required
Up to 3x (willful retention)
Potential Penalty
Security Deposit Return Deadline
Landlords have up to 60 days to return the security deposit unless the lease specifies a shorter period (minimum 30 days). The deadline may be extended to 72 days if agreed in writing.
Legal Reference: Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103
Maximum Security Deposit
Colorado does not have a statutory limit on security deposit amounts. However, landlords typically charge 1-2 months' rent. Market conditions and local ordinances may influence deposit amounts.
Legal Reference: Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103
Penalties for Violations
Up to 3x (willful retention)
If a landlord willfully retains a security deposit in violation of the law, tenants may recover up to three times the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney's fees.
Legal Reference: Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103(3)
What is Normal Wear and Tear?
Landlords generally cannot charge tenants for normal wear and tear. Examples typically include:
- ✓Paint fading or minor chips from normal aging
- ✓Carpet wear from regular foot traffic
- ✓Small nail holes from normal picture hanging
- ✓Minor scuffs on walls and baseboards
- ✓Worn or faded flooring from normal use
- ✓Light fixtures showing normal aging
Landlord Obligations
- 1Return deposit or itemized statement within 30-60 days (per lease)
- 2Provide written itemized statement of deductions
- 3Include receipts or estimates for repairs
- 4Return remaining balance with the statement
- 5Send statement to tenant's forwarding address
Tenant Rights
- ✓Receive itemized statement of all deductions
- ✓Right to dispute improper deductions
- ✓Sue in small claims court (up to $7,500)
- ✓Recover up to 3x deposit if landlord willfully withholds
- ✓Receive interest on deposit (some municipalities)
Common Landlord Violations
These are issues that tenants frequently encounter with security deposits in Colorado:
- !Missing the 60-day deadline (or lease-specified deadline)
- !Not providing itemized deductions
- !Charging for normal wear and tear
- !Excessive cleaning charges
- !Not providing receipts for repair costs
- !Failing to return deposit to forwarding address
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a landlord have to return my deposit in Colorado?
Colorado law allows up to 60 days, but your lease may specify a shorter period (minimum 30 days). Check your lease agreement for the specific deadline.
What can a Colorado landlord deduct from my security deposit?
Landlords can deduct for unpaid rent, unpaid utilities, cleaning to restore the unit to move-in condition, and repairs for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
What happens if my landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If your landlord willfully fails to comply with the law, you may be entitled to recover up to three times the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney's fees.