The Utah Division of Real Estate regularly updates the rules that govern rental housing—and if you’re a landlord, keeping up with these changes isn’t optional. Failure to follow new laws and administrative rules can lead to serious consequences, from lease disputes to licensing violations.
Below are the most important updates from recent legislative sessions and Division rulemaking that Utah landlords need to know in 2025.
New Administrative Rules on Trust Account Supervision
Licensed property managers and brokers must comply with stricter trust account rules under the Division’s updated administrative code. These include:
- Enhanced broker oversight requirements
- Documentation standards for electronic payments
- Prohibitions on personal Venmo/Zelle use for rent collection
You can learn more about these compliance issues in our post:
Utah Property Manager Payment Rules: Cracking Down on Personal Venmo and Zelle Use
HB 337: Property Manager Licensure Changes
Starting October 1, 2025, a new law will require unlicensed individuals who manage rental property on behalf of others to become licensed. This law eliminates the previous exemption for individuals managing fewer than three properties. Landlords who rely on informal “assistants” or family members may need to reevaluate their arrangements.
Read more here:
New Property Manager Licensure Requirements in Utah: What Landlords Must Know About HB 337
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Enforcement
The Division has signaled increased scrutiny on compliance with federal lead-based paint disclosure rules for properties built before 1978. Utah landlords must:
- Provide the EPA-approved lead hazard information pamphlet
- Disclose any known lead hazards
- Include lead warning language in the lease agreement
Even minor violations can result in penalties. Stay proactive—this is a recurring area of enforcement.
Rule Clarifications on Advertising and Open Houses
Utah Admin. Code R162-2f-401a was updated to emphasize the need for written agreements when conducting open houses for compensation. Landlords using licensed agents to show or lease properties should confirm that their listing agents are in compliance.
For more on this change:
Written Agreements at Open Houses: What Utah Agents and Landlords Need to Know in 2025
Enforcement Spotlight: Discipline Trends in 2025
The Division’s enforcement priorities this year include:
- Unlicensed property management
- Trust account mismanagement
- Advertising violations
- Broker supervision failures
These trends highlight the importance of formal training and documented compliance practices—especially for landlords managing their own properties or working with third-party managers.
Don’t Wait for an Audit to Get Compliant
Staying informed is the first step. But applying these changes to your lease agreements, management practices, and business policies is what protects you in the long run.
Need help reviewing your lease, policies, or compliance plan?
Call 801-882-7444 or email us to schedule a consultation with Duckworth Legal Group. We help Utah landlords navigate a shifting legal landscape with confidence.