A Colorado security deposit demand letter is a written request for the deposit, the required written statement, and any remaining balance after lawful deductions. It also creates proof that you gave the landlord a fair chance to fix the issue.
When to send it
Send a demand letter after the applicable Colorado deadline has passed. The default deadline is 30 days after termination of the rental agreement or surrender of the key, whichever is later. If the lease gives the landlord more time, the period cannot be more than 60 days.
Watch this step
If you may file for stronger wrongful-retention recovery, the demand needs to satisfy Colorado's seven-day written-demand step before suit. Ask for return of the deposit, state that you intend to file legal proceedings if it is not resolved, and keep delivery proof.
What to include
A useful Colorado demand letter should include:
- the rental address
- the lease end or termination date
- the date you surrendered keys or possession
- your current mailing or forwarding address
- the deposit amount
- what was returned, if anything
- what written statement or documentation you received
- why any deductions are unsupported, late, or tied to ordinary wear and tear or preexisting conditions
- a clear demand for the amount owed
Sample Colorado demand language
I am requesting return of the security deposit balance for [Rental Address]. The tenancy ended on [Date], and I surrendered keys/possession on [Date]. Please use my current mailing address, [Address], for any refund, written statement, or notice.
Colorado law generally requires the deposit or written statement to be provided within 30 days after termination of the rental agreement or surrender of the key, whichever is later, unless the lease provides a longer period not exceeding 60 days. I have not received the deposit balance or a compliant written statement with exact reasons and supporting documentation.
This letter is my written demand for return of the deposit balance. If this is not resolved within at least seven days after receipt, I intend to consider legal proceedings for wrongful retention of the security deposit.
Why one letter is often not enough
One demand letter can be the turning point, but Colorado disputes often depend on the full record: move-out proof, the lease deadline, written statement, documentation, deduction support, and the seven-day demand. If the landlord still does not respond, the next letter should be more statute-backed and specific.
The Colorado Recovery System includes the move-out notice, seven-day demand, entitlement notice, and final demand in order.
Get the Colorado Recovery SystemRelated pages
Important
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.