What should I do if my apartment doesn’t have a working fire escape?

Send written notice to your landlord and, if the issue isn't fixed quickly, report it to your local fire or building department.

Are sprinklers required in all Colorado rental buildings?

No, only newer apartment buildings (typically built after 2011) require sprinklers; older buildings usually need working smoke alarms and safe exits.

Can I withhold rent if my landlord won’t fix a fire code violation?

Withholding rent may be possible but only after you provide written notice and give your landlord reasonable time to repair. Consult official resources or legal assistance before taking this step.

Where do I report safety code violations in Colorado?

Report to your city or county building department, fire prevention office, or online via their official complaint form.

Does Colorado have an official form to request repairs?

No official statewide form exists, but local agencies offer sample letters for requesting repairs.

Colorado Fire Escape and Sprinkler Requirements for Renters

Health & Safety Standards Colorado published: June 21, 2025

Fire safety is a top concern for every renter in Colorado. Understanding fire escape routes and sprinkler requirements is vital for your health and safety. Colorado has clear regulations that landlords must follow to keep apartments and rental homes safe.

Fire Safety Standards for Rentals in Colorado

Colorado law requires rental properties to meet specific safety standards. These ensure all tenants have safe exits in case of fire and protection against fire damage. Fire safety rules are set by statewide law and enforced by city and county building departments.

Fire Escape Requirements

Exit Routes: All rental units must have at least two safe means of egress (ways to exit the building) in case of fire. This often means a door and a window that are not blocked or locked from inside.
Window Standards: Bedroom windows must open easily, be large enough for an adult to climb through, and be free of security bars unless those bars have quick-release devices.
Hallways and Stairwells: These areas must remain clear of any obstructions and meet local fire safety codes.

Colorado uses the International Building Code (IBC) and local fire codes, so requirements may vary slightly by city or county.

Sprinkler System Requirements

New apartment buildings (built after 2011 in most areas) must have automatic fire sprinkler systems installed.
Older buildings may be exempt, but must have adequate smoke detectors and clear exit routes.
Sprinkler systems should be inspected annually. Tenants can request documentation of inspections from landlords if concerned.

For specifics, check your city's fire department website. For example, see the Denver Fire Department Prevention and Investigation page for more details.

Enforcement: Who to Contact for Fire Safety Issues

If you believe your rental does not meet fire escape or sprinkler requirements, here’s what you can do:

Start by notifying your landlord with a written request for repairs or information.
If the issue is not resolved, contact your local city or county building department, or the fire marshal.

The main tribunal handling landlord-tenant issues in Colorado is the Colorado County Court - Civil Division (handles residential tenancy disputes).

Relevant Forms for Renters

Notice to Landlord of Required Repairs (No official state form):
- Description: Letter or written notice advising landlord of urgent fire safety concerns.
- When to Use: If your unit lacks a proper fire escape or working sprinklers, send this notice to your landlord as the first step.
- How to Use: Draft a dated letter describing the issue, request repairs, and keep a copy for your records. No official statewide form exists, but many counties provide sample templates. See sample letters via the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.
Complaint to Local Building or Fire Department:
- Description: Some municipalities, like Denver, have online complaint forms for reporting unsafe rentals.
- When to Use: If your landlord does not resolve your written request, file a complaint with your city’s building inspection or fire prevention office.
- How to Use: Fill out the complaint form with details about the unsafe condition. Example: Use the Denver Safety Complaint Form to report lack of fire escapes or malfunctioning sprinklers. Other cities/counties may have their own forms.

Tip: Always communicate safety requests to your landlord in writing, and keep records. If repairs are delayed, contact local code enforcement without fear of retaliation—Colorado law protects you.

Legal Protections under Colorado Law

The Colorado Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (CRLTA) requires landlords to maintain habitable conditions, including fire safety exits and devices.¹
If you face unsafe conditions, you may be entitled to withhold rent or seek court intervention after giving proper notice and allowing a reasonable time for repair.
Refer to official tenant resources for complaint procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my apartment doesn’t have a working fire escape?
Write a letter to your landlord requesting repairs right away. If they don’t fix it in a reasonable time, contact your city’s code enforcement or fire department and file a complaint.
Are sprinklers required in all Colorado rental buildings?
Only newer apartment buildings (generally those built after 2011) must have sprinkler systems. Older buildings often require only working smoke alarms and safe exit routes.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord won’t fix a fire code violation?
You may have the right to withhold rent—but only after giving proper written notice and reasonable time for repairs. Always check with official tenant resources or a legal professional first.
Where do I report safety code violations in Colorado?
Contact your local city or county building department or fire prevention office. For statewide resources, see the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.
Does Colorado have an official form to request repairs?
Colorado does not have a required state form, but many local agencies provide sample repair request letters. See sample forms and guides here.

Conclusion: What Colorado Renters Need to Know

Know your rights: Your rental must have safe exits and, in many cases, fire sprinklers or smoke detectors.
If safety repairs are needed, always notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy.
Act quickly if safety issues are ignored—local code enforcement is there to help.

Stay proactive about fire safety—your rights are supported by Colorado law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

The primary Colorado tenancy legislation is the Colorado Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (CRLTA).
Fire safety and building requirements stem from the adopted International Building Code and local fire codes. See state guidance at Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control.