New rental laws in Colorado strive to increase transparency and reduce unnecessary and hidden fees that renters may encounter. Seeking damages as a tenant may be possible when a landlord violates these and prior. The changes to Colorado rental laws in 2026 are another step toward protecting tenants and minimizing leasing agreement issues in Colorado.
Security Deposit Protections for Colorado Tenants
The latest Act under the Tenant Security Deposit Protections (HB25-1249) identifies what constitutes normal wear and tear in a dwelling. New definitions clarify what fees a landlord may take from a security deposit. Passing on the costs to address stains, scuffs, and minor imperfections resulting from general use and wear is no longer lawful.
The cost of cleaning a rented space may be deducted from a security deposit only if the space’s condition is significantly worse than when the tenant moved in. The law now voids clauses from leases that permit deducting general cleaning fees from security deposits.
Repair and cleaning costs for carpet that is more than 10 years old cannot be deducted from the deposit unless a tenant causes significant damage. Damage prior to a tenant’s occupancy cannot be deducted from their deposit. Withholding painting costs resulting from everyday use from the security deposit may no longer take place.
Security Deposit Protections Provide Accountability for Deductions
Renters now have the right to request supporting evidence for deductions resulting from damage to a security deposit. Damage documentation may include visual evidence like photos or videos, final inspection reports, or invoices.
Before terminating a lease, renters may also request a walkthrough with a rental authority or landlord to document concerns. A written statement should list damages and associated costs.
Wrongfully deducting costs from a security deposit or failing to return the deposit can be costly. Now, taking legal action when a Colorado security deposit dispute occurs may allow you to recover triple the amount of damages you experience, along with attorney fees and court costs. A landlord will have specific time limits under the law to return the deposit or face civil action.
Transparency and Freedom From Deceptive Pricing Practices for Colorado Tenants
Landlords and property managers must disclose the total amount a tenant will pay for rent. This total may exclude utilities, but prevents hidden fees, which can make rent appear less. Protections Against Deceptive Pricing Practices (HB-1090) bans passing along fees for or charging unreasonable markups to tenants for the following:
- Pest control or general maintenance
- Property taxes
- Services the landlord does not provide
- Processing fees for payments
- Utility markups
- Late fees on services other than rent
The Act also limits how much a landlord or property manager can increase specific fees when a lease lasts for a year or less. These laws provide additional legal protections in Colorado rent disputes.
Tenant Rights in Colorado to Address Violations
You may be able to seek damages and interest under the Colorado Consumer Protection Act as a tenant if a landlord or property manager engages in deceptive pricing practices. Landlords have a limited time to address and correct the pricing discrepancy or face legal action. Retain all documentation concerning your rent, service charges, and correspondence with a landlord or rental agency. Ensure your right to pursue civil remedies by acting within the time limits allowed by law.
