Do Colorado Landlords Require Renters Insurance?

As a renter in Colorado, understanding your responsibilities at move-in can set you up for a smooth tenancy. One common question is whether landlords in Colorado can require you to purchase renters insurance. Knowing the rules about renters insurance, what it covers, and how it can benefit you is important before you sign any lease agreement in Colorado.

What Is Renters Insurance?

Renters insurance is a type of policy that protects tenants against losses like fire, theft, and certain types of water damage within their unit. It also often provides liability coverage if someone is injured in your home. While this insurance helps protect your personal belongings, it does not cover the actual building (which is your landlord’s responsibility).

Can Colorado Landlords Require Renters Insurance?

Yes, Colorado state law allows landlords to require new tenants to carry renters insurance as a condition of the lease. If this is the case, the requirement and any related terms (like the minimum coverage) must be clearly stated in your written lease agreement.¹

• If your landlord wants you to have insurance, they must include this in the lease before you sign.
• You may be asked to provide proof of renters insurance (such as a certificate or declarations page).
• Landlords cannot require you to list them as an additional insured for your personal property, but may require to be listed as an "interested party" for notification purposes only.

If you have questions about lease terms or feel a requirement is unreasonable, contact the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing for guidance.

What Does Renters Insurance Typically Cover?

Standard renters insurance usually covers the following:

• Personal property: Covers the cost to repair or replace your belongings (furniture, electronics, clothing) due to covered events.
• Liability protection: If someone is injured in your unit and sues you.
• Temporary living expenses: If your place is made uninhabitable by a covered loss.

Proof of Renters Insurance: Forms and How to Provide It

Colorado does not have a statewide form for renters insurance disclosure, but landlords may provide their own form or require you to submit an insurance certificate from your provider. Here’s a practical example:

• Example: Maria signs a lease for an apartment in Denver. The landlord requires renters insurance with at least $100,000 liability coverage. Maria shops for a policy and requests a certificate of insurance to email her landlord before move-in.
• If you lose your policy or need to update it, request a replacement document from your insurance company.
• If you think the requirement violates Colorado fair housing laws, you may contact the Colorado Civil Rights Division for a complaint form (Housing Discrimination Intake Form).

The Colorado Department of Local Affairs provides general landlord-tenant forms and guidance.

What If You Can’t Afford Renters Insurance?

If required by your lease, you must show proof of renters insurance. Policies can cost as little as $10-20 per month, and many companies offer online quotes. If you’re experiencing financial hardship, ask your landlord if there are alternatives or if the required coverage can be reduced. Local agencies and legal aid may be able to help.

Relevant Law & Official Sources

• Colorado’s main landlord-tenant laws are in the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12 (Colorado Landlord and Tenant Act)¹.
• There is no prohibition in state law against landlords requiring renters insurance¹.
• For housing disputes, the official contact is the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing.

FAQ: Colorado Renters and Renters Insurance

1. Can a landlord require renters insurance in Colorado?
   Yes, if it’s stated in your lease agreement. This is legal under Colorado law.
2. Is renters insurance included with my rent?
   No, renters insurance is usually a separate cost you pay to your own insurance company.
3. What happens if I don’t get renters insurance?
   If your lease requires it and you fail to provide proof, the landlord may have grounds to terminate your lease or deny move-in.
4. Are there official state forms for renters insurance in Colorado?
   No statewide form exists; landlords may use their own, or simply ask for a certificate from your insurer.
5. Who handles landlord-tenant disputes in Colorado?
   The Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing is the main official body for information and help.

Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

• Landlords in Colorado may require renters insurance if it is written into the lease.
• Renters insurance protects your belongings and may provide liability coverage.
• If you have concerns or disputes, state resources are available for support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing (official tenant-landlord information)
• Colorado Civil Rights Division (housing discrimination complaints)
• Colorado Legal Aid (renter-friendly legal help)
• Consult your local city or county housing office for additional tenant assistance

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1. Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12 – Colorado Landlord and Tenant Act

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