How long does a Colorado landlord have to return a security deposit?
Usually 30 days after termination of the rental agreement or surrender of the key, whichever is later. The lease can give the landlord more time, but not more than 60 days.
Can the lease extend the Colorado deadline?
Yes, but only up to 60 days. If the lease says more than that, do not assume the longer period controls.
What if the landlord keeps part of the deposit?
The landlord should send a written statement listing exact reasons for keeping money and the remaining balance due. Current Colorado source materials also support sending relevant documentation with the statement.
What happens if the written statement is late?
Colorado says the landlord forfeits the right to withhold any portion of the security deposit if the written statement is not sent within the applicable period.
Do I need to send a seven-day demand before suing?
Yes, if you are pursuing stronger wrongful-retention recovery. Colorado requires at least seven days' written notice demanding return of the deposit and stating the intention to file legal proceedings before filing. Keep proof of delivery.
Can a Colorado landlord deduct for ordinary wear and tear?
No. Ordinary wear and tear should not be treated as tenant-caused damage. Colorado source materials also protect renters against deductions for damage or defective conditions that preexisted the tenancy.
What is Colorado's security deposit cap?
The enhanced Colorado source identifies the current statewide standard cap as two monthly rent payments, with a separate pet-deposit cap of $300.
Can I request a walk-through inspection?
Colorado's current source materials support a tenant-requested walk-through inspection before termination or surrender of the premises, at a mutually convenient time, after the renter has had a chance to remove furniture.
What proof should I keep?
Keep the lease, deposit payment proof, move-in and move-out photos, termination records, key-return proof, current-address notice, written statement, supporting documentation, demand letters, and delivery proof.
The Colorado Recovery System gives you the four-step written sequence for the move-out record, deadline follow-up, seven-day demand, and final demand.
Get the Colorado Recovery SystemRelated pages
Important
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.