Colorado Tenant Rights
Denver and Colorado Springs have tight rental markets. Recent legislation has strengthened tenant protections significantly.
Security Deposit
- Maximum allowed
- No statutory limit
- Return deadline
- 30 days (or up to 60 days if specified in lease)
- Itemized deductions required
- Yes
Landlord Entry
- Notice required
- No statutory requirement (reasonable notice expected)
- Emergency exception
- Yes — landlord may enter without notice in genuine emergencies
Notice to Vacate
- Month-to-month
- 21 days (as of 2023, previously 30)
- Fixed-term lease
- No notice required — ends automatically
Rent Control
- Statewide rent control
- No
- Local ordinances allowed
- No
- Details
- Colorado prohibits local rent control (CRS § 38-12-301). However, this may change — advocacy is active.
Late Fees & Grace Period
- Grace period
- No statutory grace period
- Late fee limit
- $50 or 5% of monthly rent, whichever is greater (as of 2023)
Early Lease Termination
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence (with protective order), or gas leak/hazard conditions. Landlord must mitigate damages.
Key Statutes & Laws
- Colorado Revised Statutes § 38-12-101 et seq.
- HB 23-1095 (late fee caps)
Frequently Asked Questions — Colorado Tenant Rights
What is the security deposit limit in Colorado?
In Colorado, the security deposit limit is No statutory limit. Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days (or up to 60 days if specified in lease).
How much notice must a Colorado landlord give before entering?
Colorado requires No statutory requirement (reasonable notice expected) before landlord entry. Emergencies are exempt from notice requirements.
Does Colorado have rent control?
Colorado prohibits local rent control (CRS § 38-12-301). However, this may change — advocacy is active.
Can I break my lease early in Colorado?
Early termination for military deployment, domestic violence (with protective order), or gas leak/hazard conditions. Landlord must mitigate damages.
What is the late fee grace period in Colorado?
No statutory grace period. Late fee limit: $50 or 5% of monthly rent, whichever is greater (as of 2023).
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This guide provides general information about Colorado tenant rights and is not legal advice. Laws change — always verify current statutes with your local tenant rights organization or a licensed attorney. Last updated March 2026.