Colorado Security Deposit Statute Guide
This page translates the Colorado security deposit statute structure into the renter questions that usually matter: when the deposit was due, what the landlord wrote down, what was kept, and whether the seven-day demand has been sent.
The statutes to know
The Colorado package is grounded in Colorado Revised Statutes Sections 38-12-102.5, 38-12-103, and 38-12-106. Those provisions cover the deposit cap, return deadline, written statement, ordinary-wear limits, preexisting-condition limits, walk-through and documentation issues, and the stronger-recovery path.
Timing language in plain English
The core deadline is 30 days after termination of the rental agreement or surrender of the key, whichever happens later. If the lease gives a longer period, it cannot be more than 60 days.
The safest renter record shows both dates: the date the lease or tenancy ended and the date keys, access devices, or possession were returned.
Written statement and forfeiture
If the landlord keeps money, the written statement should list the exact reasons for retention and any remaining balance. If the landlord misses the applicable deadline for that statement, Colorado says the landlord forfeits the right to withhold any portion of the security deposit.
Seven-day demand language
Before filing for stronger wrongful-retention recovery, the tenant must give the landlord at least seven days' written notice demanding return of the deposit and stating the intention to file legal proceedings. Keep a copy and proof of delivery.
Sources used for this guide
- Colorado General Assembly - Renters' Rights law summary
- Colorado Session Law - HB25-1249
- Colorado General Assembly - SB26-054 bill summary
Source reviewed: April 2026.
Related Colorado pages
Four Colorado-specific documents organized around the statute, timing, seven-day demand, itemization, and final escalation.
Get the Colorado Recovery System