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Colorado law includes requirements that rental properties meet basic health and safety standards. Publicly available state guidance explains that habitable properties generally include:

• Functioning plumbing, heating, and electrical systems

• Weatherproofing that helps prevent leaks or drafts

• Flooring, walls, and roofs that are in safe condition

• Operable windows, doors, and locks

• Reasonable protection from pests or infestations

If someone has concerns about the condition of a rental unit, publicly available resources recommend:

• Providing the landlord written notice describing the issue

• Keeping copies of communications, photos, and dates

• Allowing a reasonable amount of time for repairs, depending on the problem

• Contacting an attorney or legal aid organization for questions about legal rights or next steps

Where to get help:

• Colorado Legal Services – Unsafe Housing Conditions
• Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) – Legal Resources

How Our Office Can Support

Our office can share general information and offer mediation services to help tenants and landlords communicate and explore voluntary resolutions. We do not enforce housing laws, investigate conditions, or require repairs. For legal guidance, enforcement questions, or case specific advice, contact Colorado Legal Services or a qualified housing attorney.

Security deposits are a frequent source of questions between landlords and tenants. Our office can share publicly available information about timelines, general requirements, and options for resolving disagreements.

Information for Tenants

State resources explain that:

• Landlords are required to return a security deposit within 30 days after move-out, unless the lease allows up to 60 days.
• Landlords must provide a written, itemized statement if any portion of the deposit is kept.
• If a tenant does not receive the deposit or an accounting, publicly available guidance shows that some tenants choose to send a 7-day demand letter requesting the return of the deposit.
  • Demand letter template – English (Send by Certified Mail-Return Receipt Requested)
  • Demand letter template – Spanish (Envíe esta carta por correo certificado y pida acuse de recibo)

Residents seeking more information about next steps often refer to:

• Colorado Legal Services – Security Deposits Overview
• Colorado Law Help – Security Deposits
• Colorado Judicial Branch – Self Help Center: Opening a Case

These resources offer general guidance about timelines, documentation, and small-claims court procedures.

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Information for Landlords

Colorado’s Security Deposit law (C.R.S. § 38-12-101 et seq.) outlines:

• Requirements for providing a written, itemized accounting within the legal timeframe.
• The importance of keeping receipts, repair invoices, photos, and communication records.

We can share sample accounting formats and notice templates available online, but we do not advise on what should be charged or how laws should be interpreted.

Mediation as an Option

Mediation can support communication about deductions, damages, timelines, or misunderstandings. It provides a neutral space for both sides to discuss concerns and work toward a voluntary agreement. Mediation is free, confidential, and offered by trained neutral staff.

All information on this page is for educational purposes only and reflects materials available from the Colorado Judicial Branch and Colorado Legal Services. We do not provide legal advice, interpret statutes, determine fault, or represent either party.

Some housing situations may require legal information or assistance. Our office cannot give legal advice or represent residents, but we can share publicly available resources that may help you understand your options or request support.

Helpful Legal Resources:

• Boulder County Bar Association: free legal consultations available by appointment. Use the online registration link to schedule a virtual session.
• Colorado Judicial Branch – Self-Help Center: step-by-step guides for filing court documents, including evictions and small claims.
• Colorado Law Help: general housing and tenant-rights information, including FAQs and educational articles.
• Colorado Legal Services: free or low-cost legal assistance for qualifying individuals.
• El Comité – Legal Consultations: low cost legal consultations for immigration, criminal defense, family, and civil law, available in person and virtually.

Mediation as an Option

Our office also provides free, confidential mediation services to help residents resolve disputes before legal action becomes necessary.

This information is for educational purposes only and reflects materials publicly available from trusted organizations. Our office does not provide legal advice, representation, or enforcement services.

Fair Housing laws protect people from discrimination in renting, buying, or applying for housing. These laws prohibit unequal treatment based on the following protected classes:

• Race or color

• National origin or ancestry

• Religion or creed

• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation

• Familial status (such as having children or being pregnant)

• Disability or source of income

• Marital status or veteran status

If someone believes they may have experienced discrimination, they can seek help or file a complaint through official agencies:

Federal Resources:

• File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

State Resources:

• Contact the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) for state level investigations or assistance

Educational Materials:

• Colorado Housing Connects – tenant information and referral helpline.

• Fair Housing Act (HUD.gov) – overview of federal Fair Housing protections.