CO · TenantClaim
Colorado Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 30 calendar days to return a deposit under Colorado Revised Statutes Section 38-12-103. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Colorado deposit calculator
Statutory math from Colorado Revised Statutes Section 38-12-103.
Ready to Calculate Your Rights
Enter your lease dates and deposit amounts to instantly evaluate:
- State statutory return deadline & overdue status
- Treble (3x) or double (2x) bad-faith penalty eligibility
- Small claims court limit & demand letter generation
Bad-faith penalties
A landlord who willfully retains a deposit in violation of Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103 is liable for treble the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney's fees and costs. The default return window is 30 days unless the lease lawfully extends it to 60 days.
Multiplier: 3x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Colorado
- Carpet wear or flattening in high-traffic pathways from normal foot traffic
- Small nail or pin holes from hanging pictures or curtains
Unlawful Deductions
These charges are illegal
- Charging for ordinary wear and tear instead of damage beyond normal use under Colorado Revised Statutes Section 38-12-103
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 30 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$7,500
Claims above this Colorado ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Colorado Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideColorado security deposit FAQ
How long does a Colorado landlord have to return my deposit?+
Colorado generally requires return within 30 calendar days after move-out under Colorado Revised Statutes Section 38-12-103. If the deadline falls on a weekend, TenantClaim rolls it to the next Monday.
What happens if the landlord keeps my deposit in bad faith?+
A landlord who willfully retains a deposit in violation of Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103 is liable for treble the amount wrongfully withheld, plus attorney's fees and costs. The default return window is 30 days unless the lease lawfully extends it to 60 days.
What is the Colorado small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $7,500. Larger recoveries may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction of the claim.
Does the landlord have to send an itemized list?+
Yes. Colorado requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.