What is a housing counselor, and how can they help Colorado renters?

A housing counselor is a trained, often HUD-approved specialist who assists renters in understanding their rights, resolving disputes with landlords, and accessing legal resources in Colorado.

Where can I find a legitimate housing counselor near me?

You can search the HUD Housing Counselor Directory for approved organizations throughout Colorado.

Can a housing counselor represent me in court?

No, but they can help you prepare, understand court forms, and connect you to legal aid if you need representation.

What should I do if my landlord gives me an eviction notice?

Contact a housing counselor right away, review any official notices, and consider filing an Answer form (JDF 94) with the court.

Is there a cost for using housing counselor services in Colorado?

Many housing counselors offer free or low-cost services, especially if they are HUD-approved or operate through nonprofit groups.

How Housing Counselors Help Colorado Renters Resolve Disputes

Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Colorado published June 21, 2025

If you are a renter in Colorado facing issues like eviction notices, rent increases, or repairs not being made, you may feel unsure about your next steps. Housing counselors can be a powerful resource for helping you understand your rights, mediate disputes with landlords, and connect you with legal aid if needed. In this article, we explain how Colorado renters can access housing counselors, what to expect in the dispute resolution process, and where to find government-supported help.

What Are Housing Counselors?

Housing counselors are trained professionals—often certified through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)—who help tenants understand their rights, navigate challenging situations, and avoid unnecessary legal disputes or evictions. In Colorado, many organizations and local governments partner with HUD to provide renters with free or low-cost counseling services. These counselors do not take sides but aim to help resolve issues fairly for both tenants and landlords.

When to Contact a Housing Counselor in Colorado

If you are having problems communicating with your landlord or if you have received a notice about eviction or rent increases, it’s wise to contact a housing counselor early. Housing counselors can:

Explain your rights and responsibilities under Colorado law
Help you understand official notices, letters, and forms
Facilitate communication with your landlord or property manager
Guide you to legal resources or mediation services

For example, if your landlord gives you a Notice to Quit or you receive a Demand for Compliance or Right to Possession Notice, a housing counselor can help you understand what it means and your legal options.

How Housing Counselors Can Help Resolve Disputes

Colorado’s housing counselors focus on resolving disputes before they escalate. They use a combination of education, mediation, and referral to legal assistance. Here’s how the process typically works:

Assessing your issue: The counselor will listen to your situation and review any documents or notices.
Explaining relevant laws: They will clarify how the Colorado Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act and other protections apply to you.
Creating an action plan: You may work together on steps like sending a written request to your landlord or preparing to attend mediation.
Connecting you to official agencies: If you need legal help or must file an official complaint, the counselor can guide you to the right office.

Key Forms and Where to Find Them

Demand for Compliance or Right to Possession Notice (No form number): Used by landlords to notify you of a violation or to demand you move out. If you receive this, contact a housing counselor or seek legal aid immediately. Official sample forms can be found on the Colorado Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center.
Answer Under Simplified Civil Procedure (JDF 94): If your landlord sues for eviction, use this form to respond. Filing your Answer form (JDF 94) with the court protects your rights and may help you remain in your home. Colorado renters should do this as soon as they’re served with court papers.
Motion to Dismiss (JDF 76): If you believe the eviction case is not valid, discuss with your counselor about using the Motion to Dismiss (JDF 76). This is filed with the court when a serious legal error has occurred.

The Colorado Judicial Branch is the official body handling residential tenancy disputes in the state. Visit their Self-Help Landlord-Tenant Center for additional forms and instructions.

Relevant Colorado Landlord-Tenant Laws

Your rights as a renter in Colorado are based on state laws such as the Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38 Article 12: Tenants and Landlords. Additional protections include the HB 21-1121 Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act and HB 19-1118 Notice Requirements for rent increases and eviction proceedings.¹

How To Use a Housing Counselor: Action Steps

Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor by searching the HUD Housing Counselor Directory or calling 1-800-569-4287.
Gather all notices, written communications with your landlord, and relevant lease documents.
Schedule an appointment or request urgent help if you have a pending eviction.
Discuss your concerns openly, and ask the counselor to explain your options under Colorado law.
Follow through with their recommendations—such as sending a written request or responding to court forms.
If legal action is required, your counselor can help connect you to official resources like the Colorado Judicial Branch or legal aid services.

Taking these steps helps ensure you protect your rights and find a solution before problems escalate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a housing counselor, and how can they help Colorado renters?
A housing counselor is a trained, often HUD-approved specialist who assists renters in understanding their rights, resolving disputes with landlords, and accessing legal resources in Colorado.
Where can I find a legitimate housing counselor near me?
Search the HUD Housing Counselor Directory for approved organizations throughout Colorado.
Can a housing counselor represent me in court?
No, but they can help you prepare, understand court forms, and connect you to legal aid if you need representation.
What should I do if my landlord gives me an eviction notice?
Contact a housing counselor right away, review any official notices, and consider filing an Answer form (JDF 94) with the court.
Is there a cost for using housing counselor services in Colorado?
Many housing counselors offer free or low-cost services, especially if they are HUD-approved or operate through nonprofit groups.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

Housing counselors are a helpful first step to solve rental disputes in Colorado without going to court.
Colorado law protects renters’ rights in disputes about eviction, rent, or maintenance. Knowing which forms or resources to use is crucial.
Contacting a HUD-approved counselor or your local legal aid service can help you take action and avoid losing your home.

Reaching out early increases your options for resolving issues quickly and fairly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

HUD Housing Counselor Directory
Colorado Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center
Colorado Housing Connects (free renter helpline)
Colorado Legal Services (free or low-cost legal aid)
For official forms, visit the Colorado Housing Forms Library

Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38 Article 12: Tenants and Landlords Law; HB 21-1121: Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act; HB 19-1118: Notice Requirement Changes