Colorado Security Deposit Laws 2026
Here's what Colorado law says about security deposit returns, deadlines, and penalties. All information is sourced from CRS § 38-12-103, § 38-12-104.
Return Deadline
30 calendar days
from move-out date to return your deposit
Penalty for Violations
Up to 3x your deposit amount
Requires a finding of bad faith by the landlord.
If the landlord violates the deadline, they may forfeit ALL right to withhold any portion of your deposit.
Itemization Requirements
- Itemized statement required: Yes
- Itemization deadline: 30 days
- Receipts required: No
Interest Requirements
Not required. Your landlord does not have to pay interest on your deposit.
Statute of Limitations
- Written lease: 6 years
- Oral lease: 3 years
Small Claims Court
Maximum claim: $7,500
Attorney fee shifting available — you may recover attorney fees if you win.
Primary Statute
Important Exceptions & Edge Cases
CRS § 38-12-103(1): Default deadline is 30 days (1 month). Can be extended to up to 60 days ONLY if written into the lease. If lease says 60 days, that controls. If lease is silent, 30 days applies.
Think your landlord violated Colorado law?
Generate a demand letter that cites CRS § 38-12-103, § 38-12-104 and puts your landlord on notice.
This is not legal advice. Reclaim provides legal information and document generation tools. The information on this page is sourced from CRS § 38-12-103, § 38-12-104 and is current as of January 1, 2024. For specific legal questions, consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.