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How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Colorado?
Short answer
At a glance: 30 days; 60 days (if the lease allows)
Return the deposit, or a written statement of the reasons for keeping it, within 30 days (lease may allow up to 60)
Deadline: Within 30 days after move-out (60 days for a written lease that allows longer (maximum))
Within 30 days after the lease ends or the tenant surrenders the premises (up to 60 days only if the written lease says so), return the deposit or send a written statement of the exact reasons for keeping any part of it. No deductions for normal wear and tear.
"Thirty days after the lease ends or the tenant returns the property to the landlord, the landlord must return the security deposit to the tenant or mail the tenant a written statement of the exact reasons why the landlord is keeping part or all of the deposit." lawhelp.colorado.gov
"A written lease may extend the time for the landlord to return the deposit up to 60 days." lawhelp.colorado.gov
"the new law clarifies that the default timing to return a security deposit is thirty days, rather than using the language “one month.” The law continues to provide for an exception, allowing for a longer period of time, which shall not exceed sixty days." dre.colorado.gov
Return the deposit, or a written statement of the reasons for keeping it, within 30 days (lease may allow up to 60) Verified
Deadline: Within 30 days after move-out (60 days for a written lease that allows longer (maximum))
Within 30 days after the lease ends or the tenant surrenders the premises (up to 60 days only if the written lease says so), return the deposit or send a written statement of the exact reasons for keeping any part of it. No deductions for normal wear and tear.
Who it covers: Since January 1, 2026 (HB25-1249). The deadline runs from the end of the lease or the surrender and acceptance of the premises, whichever is later. A written lease may extend it, but not beyond 60 days. Wrongful withholding can cost three times the amount withheld.
"Thirty days after the lease ends or the tenant returns the property to the landlord, the landlord must return the security deposit to the tenant or mail the tenant a written statement of the exact reasons why the landlord is keeping part or all of the deposit." lawhelp.colorado.gov
"A written lease may extend the time for the landlord to return the deposit up to 60 days." lawhelp.colorado.gov
"the new law clarifies that the default timing to return a security deposit is thirty days, rather than using the language “one month.” The law continues to provide for an exception, allowing for a longer period of time, which shall not exceed sixty days." dre.colorado.gov
"The effective date of the new law is January 1, 2026, and applies to conduct occurring on or after that applicable date." dre.colorado.gov
Notes: C.R.S. § 38-12-103 as amended by HB25-1249 (effective January 1, 2026); Colorado Judicial Branch self-help page and Division of Real Estate summary.
Last verified 2026-10-20 · Confidence: high · Status: verified · Report a correction