Adding a Roommate to Your Lease in Colorado

As rental costs rise in Colorado, many renters look to share their homes by adding a roommate. However, before bringing someone new into your space, it's crucial to follow state laws and your lease agreement. This guide outlines how to add a roommate to your lease in Colorado, helps you understand required steps and forms, and directs you to official resources supported by Colorado law.

Understanding Your Lease and Rental Rights

Before inviting a roommate to move in, carefully review your existing lease. Some leases in Colorado may prohibit adding additional occupants or require landlord approval. Violating these terms could lead to eviction or other legal issues. Here's what to look for:

• Occupancy clauses: Check if and how many additional adults are allowed.
• Subletting restrictions: Some leases ban subletting, which can include certain roommate arrangements.
• Notification/approval procedures: Determine if you must notify your landlord and receive permission in writing.

Colorado residential leases are primarily governed by the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12 - Tenant and Landlord^[1]. Your rights and responsibilities are detailed here.

Steps to Add a Roommate to Your Lease

Adding a roommate involves agreement from your landlord, documentation, and sometimes tenant screening. Follow these recommended steps to stay compliant and protect everyone involved:

1. Review Your Lease and Landlord Policy

• Look for sections on guests, subletting, or additional occupants.
• Note any written notice requirements or screening procedures.

2. Discuss and Get Landlord Approval

• Contact your landlord before your roommate moves in. Most Colorado landlords require written notification and their approval.
• Your landlord may want your roommate to fill out a rental application and undergo background or credit checks.

3. Complete Required Forms or Addendums

While Colorado does not have a statewide mandatory form for adding a roommate, many landlords will use a "Lease Addendum" or require your roommate to sign a new or updated lease. Common documents include:

• Lease Addendum (Adding Occupant): Used to officially add a new occupant to the lease. This document is usually drafted by your landlord or property manager, specifying the new roommate's name and responsibilities. Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Rental Housing Resources provides general guidance.
• Rental Application: Your landlord may ask the new roommate to complete a rental application for screening. This form varies by landlord but must comply with Colorado Fair Housing Law.

Example: If your friend Maria will move in, your landlord might provide a Lease Addendum for you and Maria to sign, detailing that she is now jointly responsible for rent and rules. Maria would also fill out a rental application as if she were applying as a new tenant.

For more about official forms and procedures, visit the Colorado Department of Local Affairs - Division of Housing site.

4. Update the Lease and Get Signatures

• All tenants — including you, your new roommate, and the landlord — should sign the updated lease or addendum.
• Keep copies of all documents for your records.

5. Consider Roommate Agreements

While not legally required, a separate roommate agreement can help set expectations about rent, utilities, chores, and shared expenses. This isn’t filed with your landlord but can help prevent disputes between you and your roommate.

What If the Landlord Says No?

Unfortunately, Colorado law allows landlords to set criteria and limit additional occupants. If your landlord refuses, review your lease and talk openly; sometimes, concerns can be addressed through clarification or references. They cannot deny a roommate based on protected characteristics under Colorado Fair Housing Laws (e.g., race, religion)

If you believe you are being discriminated against, you can contact the Colorado Civil Rights Division or Division of Housing for support.

Rental Tribunals and Official Contacts in Colorado

Disputes over roommates, lease terms, or landlord permissions often fall under the jurisdiction of county courts, but Colorado’s Division of Housing offers resources, complaint processes, and referrals. There is no specific statewide "tenancy board" like some other states, but you may find mediation resources through local housing authorities.

FAQ: Adding Roommates in Colorado

1. Can I add a roommate without landlord approval in Colorado?
   Usually, no. Most leases require written landlord permission before adding an additional occupant. You could risk eviction if you proceed without approval.
2. Will my roommate need to complete a background or credit check?
   In most cases, yes. Landlords have the right to screen any new adult occupant to protect other tenants and property.
3. If my landlord refuses, what are my rights?
   Landlords may refuse for valid reasons but cannot discriminate based on protected classes. If you think the refusal is unfair, contact the Colorado Civil Rights Division for advice or complaint procedures.
4. Who handles disputes about roommates or rental agreements in Colorado?
   Most disputes are addressed in local county courts, but the Colorado Division of Housing can offer support and mediate housing issues.
5. What if my lease is month-to-month?
   You are still required to notify and seek landlord approval before adding a roommate, unless your lease or rental agreement specifically allows for additional occupants.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Adding a Roommate

• Always review your lease and get landlord approval before inviting a roommate to move in.
• Use written documentation, like a Lease Addendum, to ensure everyone’s rights and responsibilities are clear.
• If facing disputes or uncertainties, reach out to Colorado’s Division of Housing for guidance and support.

By taking these steps, Colorado renters can secure their legal protection and keep their housing stable.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Division of Housing – Official housing information, forms, and tenant rights resources
• Colorado Civil Rights Division – File housing discrimination complaints and learn about fair housing laws
• Colorado Judicial Branch: County Courts – Find your local court for rental agreement disputes
• Colorado Housing Connects – Free housing advice and referrals for renters

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1. Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38, Article 12 – Tenant and Landlord
2. Colorado Division of Housing: Rental Rights and Resources
3. Colorado Civil Rights Division – Housing Discrimination Info

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