How Colorado Tenant-Landlord Arbitration Can Resolve Disputes

Dealing with rental disputes in Colorado—like disagreements over repairs, security deposits, or lease terms—can bring stress and uncertainty for renters. Fortunately, Colorado offers tenant-landlord arbitration and mediation options to help resolve conflicts outside of court. Understanding these programs gives you more tools to protect your rights and maintain a fair living arrangement.

Understanding Tenant-Landlord Arbitration and Mediation in Colorado

Arbitration and mediation are alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods. Instead of going straight to court, these processes let tenants and landlords work with a neutral third party to reach a solution. In Colorado, most rental disagreements first go through private negotiation. If things can't be resolved directly, mediation and, in some cases, arbitration may be used.

• Mediation: A trained mediator helps both sides talk through the issue and find a voluntary agreement. Mediators do not decide the outcome.
• Arbitration: An impartial arbitrator listens to both sides and makes a binding or non-binding decision, depending on what both parties agree to beforehand.

When Should Renters Use Arbitration or Mediation?

Colorado renters can use arbitration or mediation for:

• Security deposit disputes
• Maintenance and repair disagreements
• Concerns about lease terms
• Nonpayment of rent or rent increase disputes (when negotiation fails)

Using these programs is voluntary—both the renter and landlord must agree to participate. Many counties encourage or provide access to community mediation before court.

Who Oversees Rental Dispute Resolution in Colorado?

Unlike some states, Colorado does not have a statewide residential tenancy tribunal. Instead:

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) provides resources and oversees some rental programs.
• The county or district court can handle unresolved rental disputes and eviction cases.
• Community mediation centers, such as the Colorado Center for Restorative Practices, often facilitate tenant-landlord mediation.

To bring a dispute before a formal legal body, renters typically file paperwork at their local Colorado county court.

Key Colorado Forms and How to Use Them

You may encounter forms in Colorado during the rental dispute process. Here are the most relevant for renters:

• JDF 99 – Complaint in Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED):
  This is the main form to officially file an eviction case (also known as an "FED action"). As a renter, you might use this form if you need to respond to an eviction or countersue a landlord over issues like unsafe living conditions. Learn more and download from the official Colorado Judicial Branch eviction forms page.
  Example: If your landlord files for eviction but you believe you’re being retaliated against for requesting repairs, you could respond to the case using this form.
• Mediation Intake Forms (county-based):
  Many counties offer mediation services and require a brief intake form to describe your situation. One example is the City of Boulder Mediation Intake Form.
  Example: If you want to request free mediation because of a dispute over a security deposit, you submit this form to start the process.

Relevant Colorado Tenant-Landlord Legislation

Colorado rental rights and dispute processes are governed by the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38 – Property Real and Personal, especially Article 12 on landlord and tenant law¹.

You can learn more about official eviction and dispute processes on the Colorado Judicial Branch Landlord/Tenant Forms page.

How to Start Mediation or Arbitration in Colorado

• Contact your local mediation center, often based at city or county level. (Find a directory via Colorado Mediation Association.)
• Ask if your dispute is eligible for free or low-cost mediation. Some counties offer this as part of the eviction court process.
• Fill in an intake form describing the issue, which both you and your landlord must agree to complete.
• If both parties agree, schedule a session with a mediator. Arbitration often requires a separate, prior written agreement between parties.

Some court-ordered mediations are available, particularly in eviction filings. Always respond promptly to court notices and use the official forms when required.

FAQ: Colorado Arbitration and Rental Disputes

1. Do I have to use mediation or arbitration for a rental dispute in Colorado?
   No, these programs are voluntary unless ordered by a local court. Both you and your landlord must agree to participate.
2. Are mediation services free for renters?
   Some mediation services—especially for eviction or security deposit disputes—are free or low cost. Check with your city or county mediation center.
3. Will mediation stop the eviction process?
   Mediation may pause eviction proceedings if both sides agree, but you must also respond to court notices and deadlines using the official forms.
4. How do I file a formal complaint about my landlord?
   You generally start by using local court forms such as JDF 99 or contacting your county’s mediation program. More information is available via the Colorado Department of Local Affairs landlord-tenant resource page.
5. Where can I find Colorado’s rental laws?
   Read the full Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38 for current rental laws.

Key Takeaways

• Arbitration and mediation offer faster, often less costly ways to resolve rental disputes in Colorado.
• Many local courts and mediation centers provide services specifically for renters.
• Always use official forms and respond to notices promptly to protect your rights.

Understanding and using Colorado’s dispute resolution programs helps renters and landlords reach practical solutions—and may prevent bigger legal challenges.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs – Landlord/Tenant – Rental laws, help lines, and mediation resources.
• Colorado Judicial Branch Landlord/Tenant Forms – Official state forms for evictions, complaints, and responses.
• Colorado Mediation Association – Find a community mediation program near you.
• Colorado Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal help for eligible renters statewide.

---

1. See: Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38 – Property Real and Personal (Current Version), including Article 12 "Landlord and Tenant".

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations