Can my landlord change my locks in Colorado if I miss rent?

No. In Colorado, landlords cannot change locks or evict tenants without a court order. Self-help evictions are illegal.

What should I do first if I am locked out?

Document the situation, contact your landlord in writing, then reach out to local law enforcement or your county court if necessary.

Is it legal for my landlord to shut off utilities instead of changing the locks?

No. Shutting off utilities to force you out is considered an illegal eviction method under Colorado law.

How long does it take to regain access through the courts?

The process is usually expedited, with hearings often scheduled within days for urgent lockout cases.

Can I get damages if I was locked out illegally?

Yes. Colorado law allows tenants to claim compensation for actual losses caused by an unlawful lockout.

Colorado Renter Lockout Laws: What to Do and Your Rights

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

If you’re renting your home in Colorado, understanding your rights when locked out is vital. Lockouts—when a landlord changes locks or denies entry without a proper legal process—can be stressful and confusing. This guide explains Colorado lockout laws, what steps to take if locked out, and where to seek help. All information is based on up-to-date state law and official government resources.

Understanding Lockout Laws in Colorado

In Colorado, it’s generally illegal for a landlord to lock a renter out of their home without a court order, even if there is unpaid rent or a dispute. This is known as a "self-help eviction," and it's prohibited under the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38 Article 12 (Residential Landlord and Tenant Act). Landlords must follow official eviction procedures and cannot:

Change the locks or remove doors without a court order
Remove your possessions or personal property as a way to force you out
Shut off essential utilities (like water or electricity) to make you leave

If a lockout occurs, Colorado law protects renters and provides clear steps to regain access and seek compensation if needed.^[1]

What to Do If You’re Locked Out in Colorado

If you come home to find your locks changed or are denied entry by your landlord, follow these steps:

Stay calm and document the situation—take photos or videos if possible.
Contact your landlord to request immediate access, preferably in writing (email or text).
Request a written explanation for the lockout.
If the landlord refuses or does not respond promptly, contact local law enforcement for assistance. Lockouts without court orders are illegal in Colorado.
File a complaint with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Division of Housing.
Consider filing a "Complaint for Entry to Premises" in your local county court. See more details below about the official process and form.

If utilities are shut off or property is seized, additional remedies may be available under Colorado’s rental laws.

The Official Tribunal for Landlord-Tenant Disputes in Colorado

In Colorado, county courts handle most residential lockout disputes and eviction-related issues. Renters needing rapid assistance with illegal lockouts can file with their local Colorado County Court. While there is no separate residential tenancy tribunal, the courts provide forms and procedures specifically for tenant access.

Relevant Colorado Legislation: Tenant Rights and Lockouts

All protections come from the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38 Article 12, which covers unlawful exclusion and entry rights for renters, and sets penalties for landlords who lock tenants out without following court procedures.^[1]

Key Legal Terms Explained

Self-help eviction: When a landlord tries to remove a tenant without a court process—by changing locks, shutting off utilities, or removing possessions.
Unlawful exclusion: When a tenant is locked out or denied access without a court order.
Summary proceedings: Court actions that allow a tenant to quickly regain access or seek damages.

Colorado's Official Lockout Remedy Forms

Complaint for Entry to Premises (JDF 104):
- When to use: If your landlord has unlawfully locked you out, use this form to officially ask the court to order your landlord to let you back in.
- Where to get it: Download directly from the Colorado Judicial Branch - Complaint for Entry to Premises (JDF 104).
- Example: If a landlord changes the locks while you’re at work and refuses to return your keys, you can fill out this form and file it at your county court to restore your access.
Summons for Entry to Premises (JDF 99):
- When to use: Issued after filing the complaint, this summons notifies the landlord about the court hearing.
- Where to get it: Available on the Colorado Judicial Branch - Summons for Entry to Premises (JDF 99).
- Example: After submitting JDF 104, you’ll serve this summons to the landlord as part of the legal process.

If you are unsure how to fill out court forms, county court clerks can provide instructions, but cannot offer legal advice. Tenant advocacy organizations can also help.

Your Rights and Compensation

If your landlord unlawfully locks you out, Colorado law may allow you to:

Regain entry to your rental unit by court order
Request reimbursement for actual damages you suffered (such as: hotel stay, lost wages, or costs related to lost access)
Ask the court for an emergency hearing for fast resolution

Summary: Landlords can only evict or exclude renters through a formal court-ordered process—never by changing locks without notice or court approval.

How to Regain Access to Your Rental in Colorado

Colorado rental law gives renters clear steps and access to official forms if locked out. Filing a Complaint for Entry to Premises triggers a rapid court process; if successful, the court can order your landlord to let you back in and may award damages.

FAQ: Colorado Lockout Laws for Renters

Can my landlord change my locks in Colorado if I miss rent?
No. Colorado landlords cannot change your locks or evict you without going through the court process and obtaining a court order.
What should I do first if I am locked out?
Document the situation, contact your landlord in writing, then call local law enforcement or your county court for help if needed.
Is it legal for my landlord to shut off utilities instead of changing the locks?
No. Shutting off utilities to force eviction ("constructive eviction") is illegal under Colorado law.
How long does it take to regain access through the courts?
If you use the Complaint for Entry to Premises, the court may schedule a hearing quickly—sometimes within days, especially for emergencies.
Can I get damages if I was locked out illegally?
Yes. Colorado courts may order your landlord to pay compensation for actual losses (e.g., hotels, missed work) caused by unlawful lockout.

Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

Landlords cannot lock you out or remove you without a court order—self-help evictions are illegal.
If locked out, gather evidence, contact authorities, and use official county court forms for rapid help.
Compensation may be available if you’re harmed by an unlawful lockout.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Division of Housing – For rental rights and complaints
Colorado County Courts Directory – Find your local court to file forms
Colorado Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal help for eligible renters
Colorado Judicial Branch – Housing Forms – Download court-approved lockout and eviction forms