Colorado Landlords’ Heat and Hot Water Responsibilities

As a renter in Colorado, you have the right to safe, habitable housing—including reliable heat and hot water. Understanding your landlord’s responsibilities under Colorado law can help you request timely repairs and ensure that your home remains comfortable and livable, especially during the colder months.

Landlord Requirements for Heat and Hot Water in Colorado

In Colorado, landlords are legally required to provide and maintain essential services such as heat and hot water in rental units. This is part of ensuring the rental property meets the standards of "habitability," as outlined by Colorado's Warranty of Habitability law.^[1]

What Heat and Hot Water Must Be Provided?

• Functioning heating facilities must be supplied and maintained by the landlord during cold seasons. Renters should be able to maintain a reasonable temperature in all living areas.
• Hot water must be available at all times, with water heaters in safe, working condition.

Colorado’s habitability laws cover both heat and hot water as essential services. If your landlord fails to provide either, it may be considered a violation of your housing rights.

Legal Standards and Service Timeframes

• Landlords must start repairs within 24 hours after being notified of a lack of heat or hot water.
• All repairs should be made as quickly as possible, depending on the severity of the issue.

Read more in the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Renter Rights Guide.

How to Request Repairs for Heat and Hot Water

If you notice that your heat or hot water is not working, report the problem to your landlord right away—in writing if possible.

• Describe the issue clearly (e.g., “The heater in my apartment is not working. The temperature has fallen below safe levels.”).
• Keep records of your communications for your protection.

Official Complaint Forms and How to Use Them

While Colorado does not have a statewide tenant complaint tribunal, renters can pursue remedies in local housing courts or file complaints with local health departments if heat or hot water issues pose safety risks. Your written notice to the landlord is the foundation for any next steps.

Warranty of Habitability Demand Letter

• Form Name: Written Notice of Defective Condition (no official state form number)
• Use: To formally notify your landlord in writing about broken heat, hot water, or other uninhabitable conditions.
• How: Send by mail or deliver in person, and keep a copy.
• Sample template and guidance can be found on the Colorado Department of Local Affairs website.

Filing a Complaint With Local Health or Housing Authorities

• If your landlord refuses to repair, contact your city or county housing department. They may have inspection or complaint forms.
• Find your local housing authority’s contacts at the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.

The Tribunal or Board That Handles Disputes

Colorado residential tenancy disputes involving essential repairs may be resolved in County Court (Civil Division), which handles landlord-tenant cases, including habitability disputes.

What Colorado Law Says: Key Legislation

• Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38, Article 12, Part 5 – Warranty of Habitability
• Also review Colorado Renter Rights & Responsibilities for official guidance and updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my apartment doesn’t have working heat in winter?
   Immediately provide written notice to your landlord. If no action is taken within 24 hours, you may have rights under Colorado habitability laws to withhold rent, break your lease, or seek a court repair order.
2. How soon must a Colorado landlord fix a broken heater or water heater?
   Landlords must start repairs within 24 hours after receiving written notice of no heat or hot water.
3. Can I withhold rent if hot water or heat isn’t restored quickly?
   Possibly. If the landlord does not act, the law may allow you to withhold rent, but only after proper written notice. Check details in the Warranty of Habitability statute and consider consulting legal help.
4. Does the law cover all types of rental housing?
   Most residential rentals are covered, but some exclusions may apply (such as mobile homes or certain short-term rentals). Always verify with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.
5. How do I prove my landlord received my repair request?
   Keep copies of written communications, use certified mail, or request confirmation of receipt to strengthen your case if further action is needed.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

• Colorado landlords must provide working heat and hot water; repairs must begin within 24 hours of written notice.
• Document all repair requests and contacts to protect your rights.
• If issues persist, official complaint forms and local legal routes are available for support.

Knowing your rights can help you address heating and hot water problems confidently and keep your home safe.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs – Renter Rights: Official state information and forms
• Colorado County Courts: For filing habitability or landlord-tenant disputes
• Local housing authorities directory: Find your city or county contact for complaints and inspections
• Call Colorado Housing Connects at 1-844-926-6632 for tenant support

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1. Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38, Article 12, Part 5 – Warranty of Habitability Law
2. Colorado Department of Local Affairs – Renter Rights and Information
3. Colorado County Courts – Civil Division

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