In Colorado, a landlord cannot keep deposit money just because the rental needed normal turnover. The deduction needs to fit a lawful reason and be explained in writing.
Deductions Colorado sources support
Colorado source materials support deductions for:
- unpaid rent
- unpaid utility charges
- other lawful charges listed in the lease
- necessary repairs for damage or defective conditions beyond ordinary wear and tear that did not preexist the tenancy
- cleaning contracted for by the tenant
What should not be deducted
The landlord should not keep deposit money for:
- ordinary wear and tear
- damage or defective conditions that preexisted the tenancy
- vague charges with no exact reason
- unsupported charges where relevant documentation should have been provided
Written statement and documentation
If the landlord keeps money, the written statement should list exact reasons and any balance due. Colorado's current source materials also support a relevant-documentation requirement when the written statement is delivered.
If the statement is late, the landlord can forfeit the right to withhold any part of the deposit.
Sources used for this guide
Source reviewed: April 2026.
Use the Colorado letter sequence to ask for the exact reasons, supporting documentation, and deposit balance still owed.
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Important
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.