Utah Code § 57-17 § 57-17-1
Return or explanation of retainage upon termination of tenancy.
Operative Text
Return or explanation of retainage upon termination of tenancy. Owners or designated agents requiring deposits however denominated from renters leasing or renting residential dwelling units shall either return those deposits at the termination of the tenancy or provide the renter with written notice explaining why any deposit refundable under the terms of the lease or rental agreement is being retained.
Utah Code Ann. § 57-17-1 establishes that when a residential tenancy ends, a landlord or their agent who collected any deposit — regardless of what it was called — must either return that deposit to the renter or deliver a written explanation detailing why any refundable portion is being withheld. The rule applies broadly to any deposit collected in connection with a residential lease or rental agreement. It creates a clear binary obligation: return the funds or explain in writing why they are being kept.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Utah Code Ann. § 57-17-1, compliant residential property owners and managers typically document the condition of the unit at move-in and move-out, maintain clear records of any allowable deductions under the lease, and ensure that either a refund or a written itemization of retained amounts is delivered to the departing renter promptly upon termination of the tenancy. The written notice should reference the specific lease terms that authorize any retention. Operators generally track deadlines carefully, as failure to meet the return-or-explain requirement can expose them to legal liability.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Utah Code Ann. § 57-17-1 gives renters the right to receive either their deposit back or a written explanation of any amounts withheld when their tenancy ends. If a landlord neither returns the deposit nor provides a written explanation, that failure may constitute a violation of this provision, which tenants can raise as a basis for a legal claim in small claims or civil court. Tenants who believe their deposit has been improperly withheld may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid office familiar with Utah landlord-tenant law for general information about available options.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 16, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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