Bill > HB1249

This bill enhances tenant security deposit protections by clarifying and expanding landlords' obligations when returning security deposits. The bill redefines "normal wear and tear" to include damage, uncleanliness, and typical usage of a rental unit, specifying that excessive uncleanliness does not fall under this definition. Landlords must now return security deposits within thirty days of lease termination, provide a detailed written statement explaining any retained amounts, and include relevant documentation like photographs, receipts, and invoices. The bill introduces stricter guidelines about what constitutes bad faith retention of deposits, including prohibitions on retaining amounts that unreasonably exceed actual damages. Landlords cannot withhold deposits for replacing entire carpets or repainting unless there is substantial damage beyond normal wear and tear. If a landlord wrongfully withholds a deposit, they may be liable for treble damages, reasonable attorney fees, and court costs. The bill also provides tenants with the right to request a walk-through inspection before moving out and requires landlords to hold returned payments for at least one year if they are initially undeliverable. These provisions aim to protect tenants from arbitrary or excessive security deposit deductions and promote transparency in the rental process.

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https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1249