Are landlords required by law to provide working emergency exit lighting in Colorado?

Yes. Colorado landlords must ensure all emergency exit lights and signs meet legal safety standards and remain functional.

What should I do if the emergency exit lights in my building are not working?

Document the problem, submit a written repair request to your landlord, and contact code enforcement or the fire marshal if unresolved.

Can I withhold rent if my landlord refuses to fix exit lighting?

You may withhold rent after following the formal process under Colorado habitability law. Seek legal help before taking this step.

Who do I contact for help with unsafe or non-compliant exit lighting?

Contact your city or county building department, local fire marshal, or the Colorado Department of Local Affairs for support.

Is filing a written repair request important?

Yes; a written request documents your efforts, which is essential if you need further legal support or to file a formal complaint.

Colorado Emergency Exit Lighting: Renters’ Guide

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Colorado published June 21, 2025

If you rent a home or apartment in Colorado, your safety is a top priority — especially during emergencies. Emergency exit lighting is a requirement that helps people safely leave a building if the power goes out or if there’s a fire. Knowing what standards apply in Colorado can empower you to spot violations and request timely repairs from your landlord, helping ensure everyone’s safety.

What Are Emergency Exit Lighting Standards in Colorado?

In Colorado, emergency exit lighting in rental properties is regulated to ensure that stairwells, hallways, and exits are visible and safe during emergencies. These standards are based on the Colorado Building Code (adopted from the International Building Code), as well as local city or county ordinances.

Key Lighting Requirements

Exit signs and lighting must be installed above exit doors and along escape routes.
Exit lights must automatically turn on for at least 90 minutes during a power outage.
Signs should be visible and unobstructed at all times.
Lighting units must be tested and maintained regularly by the property owner or landlord.

These standards mean that your building’s emergency lights should work—even in a blackout—giving everyone enough time to find the exit safely. Learn more about applicable building codes.

Who Enforces Exit Lighting Rules?

City or county building departments and local fire marshals enforce these rules. Routine inspections may check exit lighting, and landlords are generally responsible for repairs.

What Are My Rights as a Colorado Renter?

As a renter, you have the right to a safe and habitable home. Under the Colorado Warranty of Habitability, your landlord must keep "common areas" safe, including proper lighting for exits and hallways.^[1]

You can request repairs if emergency exit lights do not work.
You can file a formal complaint if safety issues are ignored.

Tenants can submit a written request and, in some cases, withhold rent or take other legal action if safety problems are not fixed. To understand your rights, see the Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Rental Housing page.

Relevant Official Forms

Notice to Cure (Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-40-104(1)(e))
Used to notify your landlord of issues like malfunctioning exit lighting and ask for repairs. This written notice should describe the issue and request timely action. For instructions and templates, visit the Colorado Judicial Branch – Landlord & Tenant page.
Warranty of Habitability Complaint
If repairs are not made, renters may initiate a complaint using the process outlined by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (no standard state form, but local governments may have a form).

If you’re unsure which form to use, your local city or county housing office can guide you.

If emergency exit lighting isn’t working, always submit your repair request in writing and keep a copy for your records. This simple step protects your rights.

Steps to Take if Emergency Exit Lighting Isn’t Maintained

Document the malfunction or outage (photos, dates, and a description).
Send a written repair request to your landlord, clearly describing the problem.
If unresolved, file a complaint with your city/county code enforcement or the fire marshal.
For unresolved habitability issues, follow up with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs for renter protections.

Respond promptly to keep your home safe and follow the correct channels for reporting issues.

Who Handles Renter Disputes in Colorado?

Renters’ issues—including disputes about safety and repairs—are handled through local Colorado County Courts in landlord-tenant matters. These courts process eviction, habitability, and repair disputes under Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are landlords required by law to provide working emergency exit lighting in Colorado?
Yes. Landlords must ensure that all required emergency exit signs and lights are functional—this is part of maintaining a habitable and safe residence.
What should I do if the emergency exit lights in my building are not working?
First, document the problem and then send a written request for repairs to your landlord. If they do not act, contact your local code enforcement or fire marshal.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord refuses to fix exit lighting?
Under specific conditions in the Colorado Warranty of Habitability law, you may withhold rent for unresolved safety issues—but only after proper notice and process. Consult the Colorado Department of Local Affairs before taking this step.
Who do I contact for help with unsafe or non-compliant exit lighting?
You can reach out to your local city or county building department, code enforcement, or the fire marshal. For unresolved cases, the Colorado Department of Local Affairs can assist with further action.
Is filing a written repair request important?
Absolutely. A written repair request builds a record of your efforts, which is crucial if you later need to file a formal complaint or seek help in court.

Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

Emergency exit lighting must meet Colorado standards for safety and regular maintenance.
Document any outages and send written requests for repairs to protect your rights.
Know the process for complaints and keep communication clear and in writing.

Keeping informed and proactive ensures your safety and helps maintain a healthy rental relationship.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Rental Housing – Main hub for renter protections and complaints.
Colorado Judicial Branch: Landlord & Tenant Law Self-Help – Guidance and forms for disputes.
Contact your local housing authority or building department for local complaint channels.
In case of immediate dangers, contact the local fire marshal or city code enforcement office (search "[city name] code enforcement").

See: Colorado Revised Statutes § 38-12-503 – Warranty of Habitability
For exit lighting standards: Colorado Building Code (Means of Egress, IBC 2021)
Tribunal/contact info: Colorado County Courts – Landlord/Tenant Disputes
State agency: Colorado Department of Local Affairs