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FreeNetLaw Consumer Legal Reference

Tenant Rights in Utah

A comprehensive guide to your rights as a renter in Utah. Covers security deposits, eviction procedures, rent control, repair obligations, and when to get legal help.

Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026

Key Takeaways

  • Security deposit max: No statutory limit. Landlords may charge any amount..
  • Return deadline: 30 days after the tenancy ends..
  • Rent control: No.
  • Repair and deduct: Allowed.
No statutory limit. Landlords may charge any amount. Security deposit maximum
30 days after the tenancy ends. Deposit return deadline
No Statewide rent control
Required Judicial eviction

Security Deposits

  • Maximum amountNo statutory limit. Landlords may charge any amount.
  • Return deadline30 days after the tenancy ends.

Landlord may deduct for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and cleaning. Must provide an itemized written notice of deductions within 30 days.

Eviction Process

  • Notice requirements3-day notice for nonpayment of rent (no cure period). 3-day notice for other lease violations. 15-day notice for month-to-month tenancy termination.
  • Judicial eviction requiredYes
  • Estimated timeline2 to 4 weeks for uncontested cases. Utah allows an expedited eviction process for certain violations.

Rent Control

Utah law (Utah Code § 57-20-1) prohibits local governments from enacting rent control.

Repair and Habitability

  • Repair and deductAllowed
  • Rent withholdingNot allowed
  • Retaliation protectionYes

Lease Termination

  • Month-to-month notice15 days' written notice by either party.

Tenant may be liable for remaining rent. Landlord must make reasonable efforts to re-rent. Military members may terminate under the SCRA.

Key Statutes

  • Utah Fit Premises Act: Utah Code §§ 57-22-1 to 57-22-7
  • Utah Residential Eviction Procedures: Utah Code §§ 78B-6-801 to 78B-6-816
  • Security Deposits: Utah Code § 57-17-1 to 57-17-5
  • Rent Control Preemption: Utah Code § 57-20-1
  • Retaliation: Utah Code § 57-22-5.1

When to Get Legal Help

  • You're facing eviction, especially with short notice
  • Your landlord is withholding a large security deposit
  • You believe you're being discriminated against
  • Your unit has serious habitability issues the landlord refuses to fix

Find free legal aid in Utah

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is there a security deposit limit in Utah?

    No. Utah has no statutory cap on security deposits. The deposit must be returned within 30 days after the tenancy ends, with an itemized list of deductions.

  • How much notice is required for eviction for nonpayment in Utah?

    A landlord must give a 3-day notice for nonpayment of rent with no right to cure. After the 3-day period, the landlord can file for eviction in court.

  • Can I use repair and deduct in Utah?

    Yes. Under the Utah Fit Premises Act, if the landlord fails to correct a condition that materially affects health and safety after proper notice, the tenant may arrange for repair and deduct the cost from rent.

  • Does Utah have rent control?

    No. Utah law expressly prohibits local governments from enacting rent control under Utah Code § 57-20-1.

Legal Disclaimer: FreeNetLaw provides general legal information, not legal advice. The information on this site is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify information with official sources and consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.

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