General info, not legal advice. Details

Utah Deposit return deadline

Last reviewed 2026-10-15

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Utah?

Within 30 days after the renter moves out, the owner must mail or deliver the deposit balance, any prepaid rent, and an itemized list of deductions. If the owner doesn't, the renter can serve a 5-business-day demand. Failing that, the owner owes the full deposit plus a $100 penalty.

Verified Source: Utah Code §§ 57-17-3(2)–(3), 57-17-5 · last checked 2026-10-15

How this works in Utah

Utah gives you 30 days after the renter moves out to mail or deliver the deposit balance, any prepaid rent and an itemized list of deductions. If you don't, the renter can serve a 5-business-day demand, and failing that you owe the full deposit plus a $100 penalty.

Worked example for Utah

Say a renter vacates and returns possession on February 28, 2026. The balance, any prepaid rent and the itemized list are due by March 30, 2026. If you miss it and the renter serves a demand, you have 5 business days to comply before the full deposit and $100 penalty apply.

Utah timelines and limits

Balance, prepaid rent and itemized listWithin 30 days after the renter vacates
Renter's demand5 business days to comply
PenaltyFull deposit plus $100

Utah FAQ

How long does a Utah landlord have to return a deposit?

30 days after the renter vacates and returns possession, under Utah Code § 57-17-3.

Do I have to return prepaid rent too?

Yes, along with the deposit balance and an itemized list of deductions.

What is the penalty?

After an unanswered 5-business-day demand, the full deposit plus a $100 penalty.

Sources for this section: Utah Code §§ 57-17-3(2)–(3), 57-17-5 (checked 2026-10-15)

This is general information, not legal advice. The verified rule and official sources above control. Check the source or a local attorney for your situation.

Related Utah rules

Security deposit limit

Utah's Residential Renters' Deposits Act (ch. 57-17, full-text search 2026-10-15) sets no cap on deposits; the lease controls. Any non-refundable part must be stated in writing when the deposit is taken.

Verified Source: Utah Code ch. 57-17 (§§ 57-17-1 to -5); § 57-17-2 · last checked 2026-10-15 · Full Utah security deposit limit page

Interest on deposits

Utah's Residential Renters' Deposits Act (ch. 57-17, full-text search 2026-10-15) does not require interest on deposits.

Verified Source: Utah Code ch. 57-17 · last checked 2026-10-15 · Full Utah interest on deposits page

Move-in/move-out checklist

Before signing, the owner must do one of three things: give a written inventory of the unit's condition, provide a condition form for the renter to complete within a reasonable time after move-in, or offer a walkthrough inspection.

Verified Source: Utah Code § 57-22-4(6) · last checked 2026-10-15 · Full Utah move-in/move-out checklist page

Abandoned property

Abandonment is presumed if the tenant gave no notice of absence and either rent is 15+ days late with no other sign of occupancy, or rent is unpaid and belongings are gone. The owner may serve a declaration of abandonment, which the tenant has 24 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) to dispute. For property left behind, the owner must post a notice and mail it. After 15 calendar days in storage, the owner may sell it at public sale or donate it.

Verified Source: Utah Code §§ 78B-6-815, 78B-6-816 · last checked 2026-10-23 · Full Utah abandoned property page

Same topic in neighboring states

All Utah landlord-tenant law · Utah landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone) · Move-in checklist

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