Colorado Short-Term Rental Tenant Rights Explained

If you are renting a short-term vacation property in Colorado, your tenant rights can look very different from traditional long-term rentals. Understanding the protections, responsibilities, and official processes is essential for renters seeking clarity—especially when navigating questions about deposits, eviction, or repairs. This guide covers what you need to know about short-term lease situations across Colorado.

What is a Short-Term Vacation Rental in Colorado?

In Colorado, a short-term rental (STR) generally refers to a property rented for less than 30 consecutive days. These are regulated differently from standard long-term residential leases and are often managed through private agreements, online platforms like Airbnb, or vacation rental companies.

Your Rights as a Short-Term Tenant in Colorado

• Written Agreements: While not required, it is highly recommended to request a written rental agreement outlining terms, payment, deposit, occupancy period, and cancellation policies.
• Deposit Protections: Even for short-term stays, landlords who collect a security deposit must comply with Colorado’s security deposit laws (Colorado Revised Statutes §38-12-101 to §38-12-104). Deposits must be returned within one month (or up to 60 days if specified by lease).
• Habitability: Rentals must meet basic safety, health, and habitability standards under the Colorado Warranty of Habitability Act, even for short-term agreements. Issues like heating, water, or electricity must be addressed promptly.
• Right to Notice: A short-term rental agreement typically ends on its own when the agreed period ends. Early termination rights depend on your written agreement.

When Does Landlord-Tenant Law Apply?

The Colorado Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12) often applies to rental agreements longer than 30 days. For stays shorter than 30 days (typical of vacation rentals), some parts of landlord-tenant law may not apply, but security deposit and habitability rules still generally protect renters.^[1]

Eviction and Ending a Short-Term Rental

Because short-term rentals operate more like hotel stays, renters may not have the same eviction protections as long-term tenants. The agreement typically ends on the date stated in the contract. However, if a landlord tries to remove you before the agreed end date without a valid reason or without following due process, they must use the formal eviction process.

• Notice Requirements: If there is early removal, landlords must still issue a written notice. The shortest legal notice for eviction is 3 days (used for non-payment of rent or breach), even in some short-term cases.^[2]
• Wrongful Eviction: Landlords are not allowed to remove you or your property by changing locks or shutting off utilities; only a court order can authorize this.

Relevant Official Forms

In the rare case that a short-term renter is served with an eviction notice, the official "Summons in Forcible Entry and Unlawful Detainer (JDF 99)" form is used:

• Summons in Forcible Entry and Unlawful Detainer (JDF 99): Used when a landlord files an eviction lawsuit. If you receive this, appear in court as directed. Download the form from the Colorado Judicial Branch.

For written demands, the "Demand for Compliance or Right to Possession Notice" may be served:

• Demand for Compliance or Right to Possession Notice: For non-payment or other violations. Respond promptly per the instructions. More details at Colorado Judicial Branch Housing Forms.

Security Deposit Rules for Short-Term Rentals

Landlords are required to return your deposit within 30 days (unless your agreement gives them up to 60 days). Deductions must be itemized and for legitimate damage or unpaid charges only. If the deposit is withheld improperly, you may file a complaint or, as a last resort, sue in small claims court (Small Claims Forms).

Maintenance and Habitability

All rental properties in Colorado, including short-term stays, must comply with basic habitability laws. Immediate repairs to vital services (heat, water, electricity) must be made within 24-72 hours. Always notify your landlord in writing for any urgent issues. Learn more at Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Rental Property Maintenance.

If Issues Arise: Filing Complaints and Getting Help

If you believe your rights are being violated, start by contacting your landlord in writing. If there is no response, you can:

• File a complaint through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA)
• Contact your local city or county code enforcement office for habitability concerns
• Seek free legal advice from Colorado Legal Services (Colorado Legal Services)

FAQ: Colorado Short-Term Rental Renter Questions

1. Are security deposits required for short-term rentals in Colorado?
   Landlords may require a deposit, and if they do, they must follow state rules for returning it within the legal timeframe.
2. What happens if my landlord ends my stay early?
   Your contract governs most situations, but if early termination was not agreed, the landlord must follow formal notice and potential court eviction proceedings.
3. Do habitability laws apply to my vacation rental?
   Yes. Basic health and safety (heat, water, electricity) protections apply to all residential rentals, regardless of duration.
4. Can I extend my stay beyond my original booking?
   If both you and the landlord agree, you may sign a new short-term agreement or extend in writing—always get confirmation in writing.
5. Where do I get official forms for complaints or eviction in Colorado?
   Most official housing and eviction forms can be found at the Colorado Judicial Branch - Housing Forms page.

Key Takeaways for Colorado Short-Term Rental Tenants

• Short-term rentals have some state protections, especially regarding deposits and habitability.
• Always get agreements and notices in writing, and respond quickly if issues arise.
• For disputes or formal complaints, use official forms and seek legal or state guidance promptly.

Staying informed and acting promptly are the best ways to protect your rights in Colorado's short-term rental market.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA): Division of Housing — Guidance on rental laws and reporting concerns
• Colorado Judicial Branch – Housing Forms & Eviction Information
• Colorado Legal Services — Free and low-cost legal help for renters
• Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12 – Landlord and Tenant Law

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1. See: Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12 – Landlord and Tenant Law
2. Colorado Judicial Branch: Housing & Eviction Resources

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