Important Lease Addendums for Colorado Renters

Signing a lease in Colorado is a major step toward securing a home, but it's crucial to review every part of your agreement, especially any added documents called lease addendums. These addendums can change your responsibilities or limits as a renter, and understanding them can help you protect your rights and avoid surprises. This guide explains what lease addendums are, what Colorado renters should watch for, and where to get official help.

What Are Lease Addendums?

A lease addendum is a document attached to your lease contract that adds, removes, or changes certain terms. In Colorado, landlords often use addendums to cover topics not included in the main lease. These added conditions are legally binding if both you and your landlord sign them.

Common Lease Addendums Tenants Should Watch For

Before you sign anything, look out for the following types of addendums. Each may affect your experience, rights, and costs as a renter:

• Pet Addendum: Sets rules for pet ownership, fees, or deposits. Example: requiring an extra security deposit for a dog.
• Maintenance Responsibilities Addendum: Shifts some upkeep, like yard care or minor repairs, to the tenant instead of the landlord.
• Smoke-Free Property Addendum: Prohibits smoking in certain areas or the entire property. Violations can result in penalties or eviction.
• Mold Disclosure/Addendum: Advises tenants of historical or ongoing mold concerns, and may assign cleaning or reporting duties.
• Move-In Inspection Checklist: Documents the unit's condition at move-in, which can protect your security deposit when you move out.

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Required by law for any property built before 1978. Both landlord and tenant must complete and sign the EPA's Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form. This protects renters by informing them of health risks and landlord responsibilities.

How Addendums Are Used in Colorado

Colorado law lets landlords add reasonable clauses as long as they do not override your basic renter rights under the Colorado Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act and the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38 Article 12 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act¹.

If an addendum contradicts state law—for example, by waiving your right to essential repairs—it is likely unenforceable.

Key Colorado Lease Addendums and Required Forms

• Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist
  • Form name: Colorado Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist (no official state number)
  • When used: Before move-in, both parties check and sign off on the condition of the unit. This form helps protect your deposit by documenting existing damage.
  • Link: Colorado Department of Local Affairs – Rental Forms
• Bed Bug Addendum
  • Form name: Bed Bug Disclosure and Prevention Addendum
  • When used: Discloses any history of bed bug infestations and sets guidelines for reporting and treatment. Important for tenant safety and to prevent disputes.
  • Link: Official Rental Assistance Forms
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
  • Form name: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Required by federal law for pre-1978 units)
  • When used: The landlord gives this at lease signing if the home was built before 1978. Required to be signed by both parties.
  • Link: EPA Sample Disclosure Forms

Can a Landlord Require Addendums After the Lease Starts?

Generally, any new requirements not in your original lease—including new addendums—must be agreed to by both landlord and tenant, unless your lease says otherwise. If you feel pressured to sign something you disagree with, you have the right to negotiate or seek help through state resources.

Never sign an addendum you don't understand or fully agree with—ask for clarification or contact a tenant support service for guidance.

Where to Resolve Lease Disputes in Colorado

If you have a conflict over a lease addendum and can't resolve it directly, your next step is the Colorado County Court Small Claims Division, which handles landlord-tenant disputes². The Colorado Department of Local Affairs Division of Housing also provides rental guidance and can direct you to legal information or assistance.

FAQ

1. Are all lease addendums enforceable under Colorado law?
   Not always. Addendums are only enforceable if they do not violate your basic renter rights under the law. Anything requiring you to give up legal protections or ignore required repairs may be invalid.
2. What should I do if my landlord adds a new addendum mid-lease?
   Review the addendum carefully. You are not required to sign unless your original lease allows for such changes. If unsure, contact a renter support service before agreeing.
3. Can addendums increase my rent or fees?
   Sometimes, yes—for example, a pet addendum might outline extra rent or a deposit. However, any increase generally must follow your lease's rules and the state's notice requirements for rent changes.
4. How can I get a copy of my signed addendums?
   Your landlord is required to provide a copy of all lease documents—including addendums—upon request. Always keep your own copy for your records.
5. Where can I find official forms for Colorado rental agreements and disclosures?
   Official forms are available through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Rental Assistance page and from the EPA Lead Disclosure resource.

Conclusion: What Colorado Renters Should Remember

• Always read and understand lease addendums before signing—these documents are legally binding.
• Common addendums involve pets, repairs, condition checklists, and health disclosures; some are legally required.
• If you aren't sure about any term or requirement, seek official help before signing.

Staying informed about your lease and its addendums is the best way to protect your rights and avoid disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs Division of Housing – Rental guidance, official forms, and support.
• Colorado County Court Small Claims Division: Landlord-Tenant Dispute Resolution
• Colorado Legal Services Housing Program – Free or low-cost legal help for renters.
• For official legislation, review the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38 Article 12 and the Colorado Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act.

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1. Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38 Article 12 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Colorado County Court Small Claims Division

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