Utah Security Deposit Laws
Utah landlords can charge any amount they want for a security deposit, but most keep it within 1-2 months of rent.
Written by Lynell Spencer
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Utah landlords can charge any amount they want for a security deposit, but most keep it within 1-2 months of rent. Renters can expect their deposit returned (or an explanation of use) within 30 days of moving out.
A security deposit acts as a kind of insurance for landlords against damage to their property, early lease termination, or non-payment of rent. These upfront costs can be a burden to renters, and can sometimes be difficult to get back once your lease is over.
Protect yourself by getting all the information that you can prior to signing a lease. This means doing a little research and knowing your rights. Lucky for you, the
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What is Utah’s law on security deposits?
Utah state code
57-17-3
covers renters' and landlords' rights and responsibilities regarding rental security deposits. If you pay a security deposit, you can usually expect your money back at the end of your tenancy—unless you violate the terms of your lease.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Utah?
There is no legal limit to the amount a landlord can charge you for a security deposit in Utah—but you can expect to pay one to two months' rent.
Anything over two months' rent will discourage renters from moving in, so landlords tend to stay in that range.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Utah?
By law, your security deposit must be returned to you within 30 days of the termination of your lease. Landlords have that time to inspect the unit and provide an itemized list of any damages along with the cost of repair deducted from your deposit.
If your deposit is not returned, or you have not received notification of charges in that time, you can
use this form
to legally serve your landlord. From the time they are served, your landlord has five business days to respond. MORE: How to find the best renters insurance
What can a landlord withhold a security deposit for in Utah?
Your lease agreement should give details about how your security deposit may be used, but in Utah, landlords can withhold your deposit for the following reasons:
- Unpaid rent
- Cleaning of the unit
- Damage to the unit
- Penalties or fees associated with early termination of your lease
Make sure that cleaning fees and other potential penalties are named in your lease agreement before you sign.
Key Takeaway There are several things landlords can deduct from your deposit, but they should be laid out clearly in your rental agreement.
How to get your security deposit back in Utah
Hopefully, this step is as simple as making sure your landlord has your new address. If all goes accordingly, your landlord will mail your deposit to your last known address within 30 days of your lease ending.
If everything is above board, and you fulfilled the terms of your lease without damaging the property, you are entitled to a full refund of your deposit (minus cleaning fees if they are included in your lease).
If there were damages above normal wear and tear, you can still expect a refund minus the damages which have to be provided in an itemized list within the 30-day limit.
If you have done your part and have not heard from your landlord, you can legally serve your landlord to force them to act. In Utah, you do this by delivering a copy of this
completed form
to your landlord (or their agent) personally at the address provided in the lease agreement or by sending a copy through registered or certified mail to the owner (or their agent) at the address provided in the lease agreement.When your landlord receives the form, they have five days to respond. After that, you can visit your local courthouse to start legal proceedings.
How to save money on car and renters insurance in Utah
As a renter, it’s important to know how to protect yourself, and this can seem to involve a lot of requirements and rules. Along with all the other stuff in your lease agreement, you will probably be required to have renter’s insurance.
Even if your renter's insurance doesn't cover everything, it will protect your things in the event of a covered event like fire or theft.
Jerry does all the paperwork for you and can even help cancel your old policy! And if you have any questions along the way, just text one of our agents through the app. They will always be there to assist you.
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FAQs
Can I use my security deposit as the last month’s rent in Utah?
No, but if you leave without paying your last month’s rent, it will be deducted from your security deposit along with the penalties and fees for non-payment.
If your dwelling needs structural repair above what you paid for your deposit, your landlord has the right to sue for rent non-payment.
Can a landlord charge for carpet cleaning in Utah?
According to the
Department of Agriculture
, your landlord can not charge you for routine carpet cleaning, and may only do so if the carpet is soiled above and beyond normal wear and tear. If this is written in the rental agreement, you will want to ask some questions. It’s also a good idea to take pictures of everything, including the carpets and flooring, when you have moved out, in case any issues come up later.
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