Colorado Move-In Checklist: Key Items to Inspect Before You Sign

Moving into a new rental home in Colorado is exciting, but it’s important to know what should be reviewed and documented before signing your lease. Thorough inspections and an understanding of state-required disclosures will help protect your rights and your security deposit. This guide outlines what you should check and how to use official forms to safeguard your interests as a renter in Colorado.

Why Move-In Inspections Matter in Colorado

Move-in inspections are your chance to spot any issues with the rental unit and document them before taking occupancy. This helps avoid disputes over damage or repairs when you move out. Colorado law gives renters important rights related to inspections, disclosures, and habitability standards under the Colorado Warranty of Habitability Law.^[1]

Essential Items to Inspect Before Signing

Before committing to a lease, carefully inspect the following:

• Doors and Windows: Check locks, seals, and working order
• Walls and Ceilings: Look for holes, cracks, leaks, or mold
• Floors and Carpets: Note stains, damages, and cleanliness
• Plumbing: Run taps, check for leaks under sinks, test toilets and showers
• Heating and Cooling: Ensure heating and air conditioning work properly (especially important during extreme weather)
• Appliances: Test each appliance for functionality and cleanliness; note missing manuals
• Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Confirm each device is present and operational, as required by law
• Electrical Outlets and Lights: Test outlets and light switches in every room
• Pests: Look for signs of insects or rodents, especially in kitchens and basements
• Exterior: Check for secure entryways, outdoor lighting, mailbox, and trash access

Colorado Landlord Disclosures and Move-In Forms

State law requires landlords to provide certain disclosures and, in some situations, specific forms to renters. Here’s what you should know:

Required Disclosures

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Required if your rental was built before 1978. You must receive the EPA-approved information and the Landlord’s Lead Disclosure form. Learn more and access the EPA lead disclosure forms.
• Security Deposit Terms: Landlords must disclose how your deposit will be held and when/how it can be returned, as required by the Colorado Security Deposit Law.^[2]
• Contact Information Disclosure: You’re entitled to the name and address of the landlord or property manager for notices and requests per the Notice of Leaseholder’s Rights and Responsibilities.

Move-In Inspection Checklist Form

While Colorado does not have a statewide mandatory move-in inspection form, many landlords will provide a checklist. If you do not receive one, you can use a sample Move-In/Move-Out Condition Checklist:

• Form Name: Condition of Rental Property Checklist (no official statewide number)
• How to Use: Both you and your landlord (or agent) inspect the property together at move-in. Use the form to note the condition of each room and all provided appliances. Take photos as additional proof. Sign and date the form; request a copy for your records. At move-out, repeat the process with the same checklist to compare any changes.
• Download Example: Visit the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Landlord-Tenant Guide for sample checklists and more guidance.

How to Document and Report Pre-Existing Problems

If you find any item in need of repair or not meeting habitability requirements under Colorado law, follow these steps:

• List all issues clearly on your completed Condition Checklist
• Notify your landlord in writing (email or letter) with specific repair requests
• Keep copies of all communication
• If repairs are not addressed, you may have the right to file a Habitability Complaint with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs

What If the Landlord Refuses an Initial Inspection?

Under Colorado law, move-in inspections are not strictly required but highly encouraged by official housing agencies for renter protection. If your landlord does not attend or provide a checklist, document the property yourself as outlined above and send the checklist and photos to your landlord via certified mail or email for a paper trail.

Official Board Handling Rental Issues in Colorado

Rental disputes and complaints in Colorado are overseen by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing.^[3] This is the main agency offering resources, complaint handling, and habitability dispute support for residential renters and landlords.

Summary of Move-In Inspection Best Practices

Inspecting your Colorado rental before signing protects your budget and your rights. Always request or create a checklist, document everything, communicate clearly with your landlord, and keep thorough records.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to provide a move-in checklist?
   Prepare a checklist yourself, conduct your own inspection, take photos of every room, and email or send a copy to your landlord for documentation. This protects you from future disputes.
2. Is my Colorado landlord required to be present for the inspection?
   No, but it’s recommended. If the landlord declines, you can still complete your own inspection and share your findings in writing to create a record.
3. What official form do I use to document the condition of my rental?
   Use a move-in/move-out condition checklist. While there’s no required state form, examples are available from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. Sign and date it, and keep a copy.
4. What if I discover damages after moving in?
   Immediately document the issue, take photos, and notify your landlord in writing. Keep all correspondence as proof in case of future disputes.
5. What are my rights if repairs aren't made after I notify my landlord?
   If the repair relates to basic habitability (heat, water, safety), you may file a habitability complaint with the Colorado Division of Housing and may have specific rights under the Colorado Warranty of Habitability Law.

Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

• Always complete and save a move-in checklist, with photos and signatures, before signing your lease.
• Request all state-required disclosures and review your rights under Colorado tenancy laws.
• Maintain a written record of property conditions and all communications with your landlord.

Following these steps can help prevent misunderstandings and protect your deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing — Main state resource for landlord-tenant laws, guides, and complaints
• Habitability Standards in Colorado — Fact sheets and complaint process for unsafe living conditions
• Colorado Legal Services — Free legal aid for eligible renters
• To file a habitability or landlord-tenant complaint, use the online form at the Division of Housing site or call 1-844-926-6632

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1. See the full text of the Colorado Warranty of Habitability Law (HB19-1170).
2. Review details on deposits and required disclosures in the Colorado Security Deposit Law.
3. Learn more or get official guides from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Landlord-Tenant page.

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