Colorado caps residential security deposits and requires landlords to return them within 30 to 60 days after move-out under CRS 38-12-103. Boulder enforces these state rules locally and adds rental-license accountability to ensure compliance.
Under Colorado law (CRS 38-12-103), residential landlords must return security deposits within 30 days of lease termination, or up to 60 days if the lease specifies. Itemized deductions for damages beyond ordinary wear and tear must accompany any withheld amount. Boulder rental licensing under BRC 10-3 cross-references state law, and tenants can sue for treble damages plus attorney fees for willful retention. CU-Boulder student tenants frequently invoke these rules at year-end move-outs. Boulder's rental-license framework gives tenants a city contact for complaints when state remedies feel slow.
Wrongful retention of a deposit exposes landlords to triple damages, attorney fees under CRS 38-12-103, and potential rental-license issues under BRC 10-3 enforcement.
Boulder, CO
Boulder follows state landlord-tenant law for evictions. Landlords must follow proper notice procedures but may not need to state cause for non-renewal of mo...
Boulder, CO
Boulder may require landlords to register rental properties with the city and maintain compliance with housing codes. Registration helps ensure rental units ...
See how Boulder's security deposit rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.