Utah allows an owner to use deposit money for specific categories. The deduction still needs to fit the facts, the lease, and the required written notice.
Allowed deduction categories
Utah law supports deductions for:
- unpaid rent
- damages to the premises beyond reasonable wear and tear
- other costs and fees provided for in the contract
- cleaning of the unit
If the owner keeps any part of the deposit, the written notice should itemize and explain each deduction.
Reasonable wear and tear
Ordinary use is not the same as damage. Worn carpet from normal walking, minor fading, or small marks from ordinary living are different from broken fixtures, large holes, missing items, or heavy cleaning caused by how the unit was left.
Contract costs and fees
Utah allows other costs and fees provided for in the contract, so keep your lease. If a charge is not rent, cleaning, or damage, the owner should be able to point to the lease term that supports it.
Nonrefundable deposits
If any part of the deposit is nonrefundable, Utah requires that to be stated in writing to the renter at the time the deposit is taken. Keep the lease, move-in payment records, receipts, and any separate deposit notice.
Official sources
Source reviewed: April 2026.
If deductions do not add up, the Utah system helps you challenge them in order: itemization, proof, statutory notice, and final demand.
Get the Utah Recovery System