Colorado Move-Out Notice Requirements for Renters

Facing the end of your lease or planning to move out from a rental in Colorado? Understanding the proper notice period to move out is essential to protect your deposit, avoid unnecessary rent charges, and follow state law. This article explains the required notice periods, relevant forms, and key steps Colorado renters should know when ending a lease.

How Much Notice Do Colorado Renters Need to Give?

The required notice period in Colorado depends mainly on the type and length of your rental agreement:

• Month-to-Month Lease: At least 21 days’ written notice before your next rent due date.
• Week-to-Week Lease: At least 3 days’ written notice.
• Longer Tenancies (three months or more): At least 91 days’ written notice, depending on the lease term. For a full breakdown of required notice periods, see Colorado Revised Statutes § 38-12-104.

Always check your lease, since it may require more notice or have specific procedures. Giving proper notice helps ensure you aren’t liable for extra rent beyond your move-out date.

How to Give Your Move-Out Notice in Colorado

Your notice to vacate must be written. You can deliver it personally to your landlord, post it at their residence or business, or send by registered or certified mail. Keeping a copy or a receipt is recommended.

Official Form for Move-Out Notice

• Notice to Vacate (no official form number): This is a written letter stating your intent to move and the date you’ll leave. Colorado does not have a required government form, but your letter should include:
• Your name and address
• Landlord’s name and address
• The date you plan to vacate
• Your signature and date
• See a sample from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA).

When Does the Notice Period Begin?

The notice period starts the day after your landlord receives your written notice. For example, if you hand-deliver your month-to-month notice on May 5, you can usually end your lease after 21 days, or June 1 if your rent is due that day.

Ending a Fixed-Term Lease Early

If you have a lease for a fixed term (like 12 months), you generally are responsible for rent until the lease ends, unless you and your landlord agree otherwise or there is a valid legal reason (such as active military duty). If you want to break your lease, speak with your landlord and put any agreement in writing.

What Happens If You Don’t Give Proper Notice?

If you leave without proper notice, your landlord may keep some or all of your security deposit for unpaid rent, or charge extra rent until proper notice is given. They may also follow up with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs to recover lost rent.

Which Board Handles Rental Disputes?

Rental issues in Colorado are overseen by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing. For serious disputes (like security deposit returns), you may need to file a small claims case in county court.

Relevant Legislation

• Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12: Tenants and Landlords

FAQ: Colorado Move-Out Notice Periods

1. How much written notice do I need to give for a month-to-month rental in Colorado?
   At least 21 days’ written notice, unless your lease requires more.
2. Can I use email or text to give move-out notice?
   No—Colorado law requires written notice, which should be a letter you deliver, post, or mail. Check your lease, as it may allow email as an exception.
3. What if my landlord doesn’t accept my notice?
   As long as you delivered written notice according to the law and can prove it, your notice is valid. Keep a copy and delivery receipt.
4. What happens if I move out without giving proper notice?
   Your landlord can keep part of your security deposit to cover unpaid rent or charge you for the notice period you missed.
5. Is there an official government form I must use?
   No, but you must write a clear, dated notice letter with all required information.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

• Give written notice based on your rental type—at least 21 days for month-to-month agreements.
• Always deliver notice in a way you can prove (in person, posted, or by certified mail).
• Check your lease for specific move-out terms to avoid losing your deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing—Landlord/Tenant Information
• Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38: Landlord and Tenant Laws
• Colorado Judicial Branch Self-Help: Landlord-Tenant

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1. Colorado Revised Statutes § 38-12-104—Notice Requirements for Lease Termination
2. Colorado Department of Local Affairs—Landlord-Tenant Resources

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