Whole-unit repaintSubstantial damage throughout
The act sets a higher threshold for repainting the whole interior.
Partial repaintPossible for damaged areas
The statute preserves actual-cause retention for substantially damaged portions.
Retention amountMinimum necessary
When actual cause exists, the amount should be limited to the necessary damaged area.
Questions to ask
- Is the charge for the whole unit or a defined damaged area?
- Do photos show substantial damage rather than normal wear?
- Was the condition present before the tenancy?
- Does the invoice match the area the landlord says was damaged?
Scope matters. This page summarizes statewide sources for ordinary residential rentals. Mobile-home rules, local ordinances and special housing programs can differ.
Official sources
Colorado General AssemblyHB25-1249 — Tenant Security Deposit Protections ↗
Official enacted-bill page summarizing Colorado’s 2026 security-deposit changes, inspections, documentation, carpet, paint and wrongful-withholding rules.
Colorado General AssemblyHB25-1249 Enrolled Act ↗Primary enrolled act amending C.R.S. §§ 38-12-102 and 38-12-103, effective January 1, 2026.