Colorado Agricultural Worker Housing: Tenant Rights & Regulations

Agricultural workers play a vital role in Colorado’s economy, and their right to safe and fair housing is protected by state and federal laws. If you rent or live in farmworker housing—also known as migrant or seasonal worker housing—there are special regulations designed to ensure your comfort, health, and security. Understanding these rights can help you address issues like repairs, complaints, or questions about your lease and living conditions.

What Is Agricultural Worker Housing?

Agricultural worker housing refers to living accommodations provided by employers or landlords for people working in fields, ranches, or other agricultural operations. In Colorado, such housing may be seasonal, temporary, or permanent.

• These homes may range from shared dormitories and bunkhouses to self-contained units or mobile homes.
• Housing must comply with standards for sanitation, safety, privacy, and occupancy, as set by Colorado law and federal rules.

Your Rights as an Agricultural Housing Tenant in Colorado

Whether you pay rent directly or your housing is part of your employment, you still have important tenant rights:

• Right to safe and sanitary housing: Units must meet health codes and provide basic amenities—such as working toilets, adequate ventilation, and potable water.
• Protection from retaliation: You cannot be evicted or punished for reporting unsafe conditions or exercising your legal rights.
• Right to written information: You should receive details about your housing agreement and how to report maintenance or safety concerns.
• Fair notice if you are asked to move out, as outlined in Colorado’s Residential Tenants and Landlords Act.

Colorado Laws Covering Farmworker Housing

• HB21-1147 (Agricultural Workers’ Rights) ensures fair housing and working conditions.
• The Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38, Article 12 (Residential Tenants and Landlords) protect your basic rights as a renter.
• Federal standards (OSHA and U.S. Department of Labor) also apply to most migrant and seasonal agricultural housing, providing additional safety requirements.

Regular inspections by state or local health authorities help ensure compliance with these rules. If conditions are not safe, renters can take specific action.

How to Report a Problem or File a Complaint

If you experience unsafe, unhealthy, or unfair treatment in your agricultural worker housing, you have options for reporting and resolving the issue:

• First, notify your landlord or employer about the problem in writing if possible.
• If no action is taken, you may file a complaint with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, or your local health department.
• You are also protected from retaliation for making a complaint about your housing conditions.

Official Forms for Colorado Agricultural Worker Housing Issues

• Request for Inspection or Complaint Form (CDPHE):
  This form is used to report unsanitary or unsafe housing directly to the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment. For example, if you notice mold, broken plumbing, or unsafe electrical systems that are not fixed by your landlord.
  Report a public health issue (Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment)
• Labor Complaint Form (CDLE):
  Use this when your housing is part of your job, and you believe your employer is violating your housing or wage rights. For example, if your employer threatens eviction after you report unsafe conditions.
  File a complaint with Colorado Department of Labor & Employment

After submitting a form, a state officer may inspect the housing to evaluate your complaint and require the landlord or employer to make repairs or improvements if needed.

Who Regulates Agricultural Worker Housing in Colorado?

Two primary authorities oversee residential and agricultural worker housing in Colorado:

• Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) handles housing tied to employment and labor rights.
• Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) enforces health and sanitation standards for group homes and farmworker dwellings.

The official tribunal responsible for residential tenancies and disputes is the Colorado county courts—Landlord-Tenant Division.

Key Legislation Protecting Colorado Agricultural Worker Tenants

Tenancy rights are protected by Colorado’s Residential Tenants and Landlords Act (CRS Title 38, Article 12). These laws set rules for eviction notices, property safety, repairs, and retaliation. The Agricultural Workers’ Rights Act adds further protections for those living in employer-provided accommodations.

FAQ: Colorado Agricultural Worker Housing

1. What can I do if my employer does not fix unsafe housing?
   If your landlord or employer fails to make necessary repairs, report the conditions to the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment or file a labor complaint with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. You cannot be lawfully retaliated against for filing a complaint.
2. Do I have to pay rent if housing is included in my job?
   Even if your housing is part of your employment, you still have tenant rights. Rent cannot be deducted from your paycheck unfairly, and you are entitled to safe living conditions under Colorado law.
3. Can I be evicted without notice from agricultural worker housing?
   No. Your landlord or employer must follow Colorado’s legal process for eviction, which usually includes written notice, a valid reason, and time to move unless there is an emergency. See the Residential Tenants and Landlords Act for more.
4. Are there health inspections of agricultural worker housing?
   Yes. State and local health authorities regularly inspect agricultural housing for compliance with safety and sanitation rules. Tenants may request an inspection at any time if there are concerns.
5. Where can I get legal help as an agricultural worker tenant?
   You may contact Colorado Legal Services or state-run support lines (see below for details) for advice and representation regarding your tenant rights.

Key Takeaways

• Colorado law protects all agricultural worker tenants with safety, eviction, and retaliation safeguards.
• Official complaint forms are available for health or labor violations—use them to report problems and request inspections.
• Always seek written information and support from government or legal resources if you have rental housing issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Labor & Employment (CDLE) – File labor or housing complaints related to your job.
• Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) – Report health or sanitation issues in agricultural housing.
• Colorado Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal advice for tenants and workers.
• Colorado Courts (Landlord-Tenant Questions) – Self-help and official processing for disputes.

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1. Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38, Article 12: Residential Tenants and Landlords
2. Colorado House Bill 21-1147: Agricultural Workers’ Rights
3. Colorado Department of Labor & Employment: File a Complaint
4. Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment: Report a Public Health Issue
5. Colorado County Courts: Landlord-Tenant Division

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