Amongst a legislative session of progressive changes for the state of Colorado, renters and their advocates made a significant mark on local policy. From notice timing mandates for landlords to payment-withholding provisions for tenants, Colorado renters have more power than in recent memory. In a state where many argue that landlords have held dominance, this new legislation is likely to bring renter/landlord power closer to balance.
Colorado Renter Policies Passed in the 2019 Legislative Session
House Bill 118 requires landlords to give tenants 10 days notice before eviction (in the case that the tenant has violated the terms of the lease). This is in contrast to the previous 3 day requirement and allows for added time to correct the violation before eviction.
House Bill 1170 gives renters the ability to withhold rent payments in the event that the landlord fails to respond to a reported problem within a specified timeframe.
House Bill 1106 mandates that landlords must limit rental application fees to the amount required for application processing.
House Bill 1309 increases time for mobile home tenants to make late rent payments to 10 days (from the previous 5) before eviction.
Senate Bill 180 provides financial support to low-income tenants facing eviction.
Live Urban Real Estate's View on Renters' Rights
Randi Goldberg, Live Urban's top producing Realtor and rental property owner, believes that Colorado is on the right track. œTo own an investment property mainly benefits the owner, so it is Colorado's moral responsibility to treat good tenants fairly. These steps toward offering tenants expanded power in difficult situations demonstrates our policy makers' agreement with Goldberg.
Colorado's productive 2019 legislative session highlights the Centennial State's commitment to progressive policies and rights equality. With rent control discussions in the works, there may be even more tenant-focused legislation to come.
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