When you're getting ready to move out of a rental in Colorado, the last thing you want is a surprise deduction from your security deposit. But many tenants aren’t aware of what landlords can legally charge for and what they can’t.

In this post, we’re breaking down the real costs you might face during move-out, and how to avoid unnecessary charges while protecting your deposit.

💸 Legal vs. Questionable Charges: Know the Difference

Under Colorado law (see: Colorado Revised Statutes - Tenant and Landlord Act), landlords are allowed to deduct for actual damage, unpaid rent, or unpaid utility bills — not for normal wear and tear.

Here’s what typically qualifies as a legitimate cleaning-related deduction:

• Oven with baked-on grease or burned food
• Refrigerator with food residue or heavy stains
• Soap scum buildup in bathtubs or shower doors
• Pet urine damage, strong odors, or hair buildup
• Excessive grease on kitchen cabinets or range hoods

What’s not legal to deduct for? Normal signs of use. This includes:

• Minor scuffs on walls
• Light dust on baseboards or blinds
• Faded carpet from sunlight or general wear
• Clean but used bathroom grout or caulking

Landlords sometimes blur the line between cleaning and damage. If you’re unsure, ask them to document the issue especially if it wasn’t noted on your move-in checklist.

🔍 How to Protect Yourself

Move-out fees can feel arbitrary unless you take a few proactive steps. Here’s how to make sure you’re covered:

1. Do a Pre-Move-Out Walkthrough

Ask your landlord for a walkthrough 7–10 days before your move. Take notes of anything they mention — and ask whether they’ll deduct for it if it’s not addressed.

2. Save Your Receipts

If you hire a professional cleaning service (like ours), keep the receipt. Landlords will have a harder time claiming the place wasn’t cleaned properly if you can show proof of professional-grade work.

3. Take Photos and Video

Before you hand over the keys, do a full walkthrough and document everything. Focus on commonly disputed areas like ovens, fridge interiors, bathrooms, and windows.

📃 What Landlords Must Do Under Colorado Law

Landlords in Colorado have 30 days from the end of your lease to return your deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions (Colorado Revised Statutes § 38-12-103). If they don’t provide this list, you may be entitled to the full deposit back — even if there was damage.

If you believe deductions are unfair or undocumented, you can:

• Send a formal written request for clarification
• Use small claims court if the issue isn’t resolved
• Contact a tenants' rights group for free legal advice

More information on this can be found at the Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Rental Resources.

We Help Colorado Tenants Leave With Confidence

At Trusted Choice Cleaning, we know what landlords look for. Our move-out services focus on high-deduction areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and pet zones so you don’t get charged for details you didn’t even notice.