Updated for 2026

Colorado Security Deposit Laws & Calculator

Colorado landlords must return your security deposit within 1 month (or up to 60 days if the lease specifies). The state has one of the strongest penalties in the country — 3× the amount wrongfully withheld for willful retention. Use our free calculator to see what you're owed.

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Colorado Security Deposit — Quick Facts

Return Deadline
1 Month
Up to 60 days if lease specifies
Maximum Deposit
2 Months' Rent
Since Aug 2023
Penalty for Late Return
3× Withheld
Willful retention + attorney fees
Interest Required
✗ No
Applicable Law
Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103
Check Your Lease: Colorado's default return deadline is 1 month (30 days), but your lease may extend this to up to 60 days. Check your lease agreement for the specific deadline. If the lease doesn't mention a timeframe, the 1-month default applies. In hazardous situations (gas leak, flood, fire), the deadline is just 72 hours.

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Colorado Security Deposit Law — Explained

The Return Deadline: 1 Month (or Up to 60 Days)

Under Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103, the default return deadline is 1 month after the lease terminates. However, the lease can extend this to up to 60 days. If your lease specifies a longer period (up to 60 days), that's the deadline that applies. If the lease is silent, the 1-month default controls. In hazardous situations — gas leaks, flooding, fire damage — the landlord must return the deposit within 72 hours.

What Your Landlord Can Deduct

Colorado landlords may deduct for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning costs to restore the unit to its move-in condition, and other lease violations. Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, faded paint, carpet worn from regular use — cannot be deducted. The landlord must provide a written itemized statement of all deductions.

The 3× Penalty for Willful Retention

Colorado has one of the strongest penalty provisions in the country. If a court finds the landlord willfully retained the deposit — meaning they intentionally kept it without justification — the tenant can recover 3× the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees and court costs. This treble damages provision is a powerful deterrent and gives tenants significant leverage in disputes.

Deposit Cap: 2 Months' Rent

Since August 7, 2023, Colorado caps security deposits at 2 months' rent under C.R.S. § 38-12-102.5. Prior to this, there was no statutory limit. If your landlord charged more than 2 months' rent after that date, you may be entitled to a refund of the overage. Additionally, pet security deposits are capped at $300 and must be refundable.

What to Do If Your Landlord Is Late

  1. 1
    Check your lease for the return deadline It could be 30 days (default) or up to 60 days if specified in the lease.
  2. 2
    Document everything before you leave Take timestamped photos and video. Keep your lease and all communications.
  3. 3
    Provide your forwarding address in writing Email or certified mail creates a clear record.
  4. 4
    Send a formal demand letter after the deadline Use RenterCalc's demand letter generator citing Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103.
  5. 5
    File in county court small claims division Colorado's small claims limit is $7,500. You can sue for the deposit plus 3× the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney fees.

Colorado Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Colorado?
1 month (30 days) by default, or up to 60 days if the lease specifies a longer period. In hazardous situations, the deadline is 72 hours.
What is the maximum security deposit in Colorado?
Since August 7, 2023, Colorado caps security deposits at 2 months' rent under C.R.S. § 38-12-102.5.
What is the penalty for not returning a security deposit in Colorado?
For willful retention, tenants can recover 3× the amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees and court costs.
Does Colorado require interest on security deposits?
No. Colorado does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
How do I get my security deposit back in Colorado?
Check your lease for the deadline (30–60 days), document the unit, provide your forwarding address, then send a demand letter if the deposit isn't returned. File in county court small claims (limit: $7,500) if unresolved.

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