LEGAL
An Informed Approach to Colorado ’ s Evolving Landlord-Tenant Laws
BY MARK N . TSCHETTER
Forewarned is forearmed . Colorado ’ s landlord-tenant laws have undergone significant changes in recent years , creating a legal landscape that is both extensive and highly complex . These numerous changes have introduced substantial tenant protections while also adding new compliance requirements for landlords , property managers , and housing providers . The rental industry as a whole faces a heightened regulatory landscape full of both legal and operational challenges as well as potential liability . As a result , staying informed has never been more critical for those engaged in rental housing operations .
The new laws present operational changes for all landlords and tenants . In 2023 , for example , the General Assembly significantly revised the Rental Application Fairness Act transforming what was once a simple consistent procedure for all housing applicants to a highly individualized process for each applicant creating vast operational challenges for housing providers and confusion among tenant applicants . In 2024 , the Colorado Warranty of Habitability Act was overhauled , expanding its scope and establishing new obligations for landlords and further protections for tenants . Additionally , the 2024 “ Just Cause ” Eviction law fundamentally reshaped the process for lease renewals and terminations , reflecting a broader policy shift in the regulation of rental housing .
One of the key challenges facing rental housing providers — particularly small , independent landlords — is the need for ongoing legal guidance to interpret evolving regulations . The growing complexity of landlord-tenant law has led to a legal framework that requires substantial expertise to navigate effectively .
As a result of the complexity and ambiguity in the law , there has been a substantial increase in litigation related to landlord-tenant issues . This comes in the form of more contested eviction proceedings and appeals , lawsuits against landlords both from individual litigants and class action lawsuits , and government investigations . The cost of being unaware , uninformed or illadvised has never been greater .
To put into perspective the current complexity and vastness of Colorado landlord-tenant law , consider the
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