Building Codes & Habitability — Colorado
Warranty of habitability, repair obligations, and city rental programs
State Habitability Standard
Implied warranty of habitability under state landlord-tenant law
Contact local housing authority for specific statutory citations and requirements.
Minimum Habitability Requirements
- Structural safety: sound roof, walls, floors
- Working plumbing and hot water
- Adequate heat
- Working electrical systems
- Pest-free premises
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Repair Obligations & Tenant Remedies
Rent Withholding
Consult local housing code — varies by condition severity
Colorado does not have a statutory repair-and-deduct remedy. Tenants must typically pursue code enforcement or court action for habitability failures. Consult Colorado Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act + C.R.S. §§ 38-12-101 et seq. for current tenant remedies.
City-Level Rental Programs
Denver, CO — Rental Program Details
Registration Required
Yes
Fee Per Unit
$50/unit
Inspection Program
Denver Community Planning and Development — Rental License Program
Inspection Frequency
On complaint; license required to rent
Denver requires a rental license (~$50/unit) to legally rent residential property. License issued upon owner certification of code compliance. Denver Building and Fire Code applies to all rental units. Colorado source-of-income protection (HB 23-1255, 2023) applies statewide. Denver Fair Housing Ordinance aligns with state and federal protections.
Governing Statute
Colorado Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act + C.R.S. §§ 38-12-101 et seq.
This tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.