Request Repairs Before Moving In: Colorado Renters’ Guide

Moving into a new rental home in Colorado is exciting, but making sure it’s safe and habitable is essential. Before you sign your lease or collect your keys, it’s important to know how to request repairs, what documentation you need, and which state laws protect your right to a safe home. This guide explains the steps Colorado renters can take to demand repairs before move-in, including official forms and legal contacts.

Your Right to a Safe and Habitable Home in Colorado

Colorado law guarantees every renter the right to live in a home that meets minimum health and safety standards. Landlords must make sure the property is in good repair, free from hazards such as mold, broken locks, plumbing leaks, or unsafe electrical wiring before you move in. These rights are set out in the Colorado Warranty of Habitability Act.¹

Essential Inspections and Pre-Move-In Documentation

Before moving in, walk through the unit and inspect every room. You can bring a friend as a witness and take photos or videos of any issues. If you find something that isn’t safe or fully functional, you’ll need to demand repairs in writing. Always keep a copy of your communications for your records.

Pre-Move-In Checklist for Colorado Renters

• Check locks on all doors and windows
• Test plumbing (sinks, toilets, showers)
• Inspect for visible mold, water damage, or pests
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Test appliances (stove, refrigerator, heater, AC)
• Look for safe electrical outlets and lights

How to Demand Repairs: Forms and Legal Steps

If you find repairs are needed, Colorado law requires you to notify your landlord in writing. This notification gives the landlord a set amount of time to fix serious, habitability-related issues. Under the Colorado Warranty of Habitability Act, you can use a simple written repair request. There is no official state-issued repair request form, but a detailed letter or email will meet the legal requirement.

When and How to Use a Written Repair Request

• When to Use: If you discover problems before signing the lease, submit the request as soon as possible. If discovered after signing but before moving in, act immediately.
• How to Use: Write a letter or email to your landlord clearly listing the issues and asking for them to be fixed before move-in. Include your name, unit address, list of problems, and your proposed move-in date.

Example: You find a leaking sink and broken smoke detector during your walkthrough. You email your landlord the list, photos, and request both issues be repaired before your planned move-in date.

What If Repairs Are Not Made?

If your landlord doesn’t fix habitability issues after written notice, you can:

• Delay move-in until repairs are complete
• Negotiate a reduced rent until repairs are finished
• If repairs are not made after notice and deadlines, you may break the lease or seek legal help

You may file a complaint with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Division of Housing or seek a remedy through the local court system.

Relevant Forms for Colorado Renters

• Written Repair Request Letter (no official form): Use a detailed letter or email addressed to your landlord. Colorado does not currently require or provide a specific form number. View landlord-tenant resources from DOLA.
• Complaint Form—Colorado Division of Housing: If repairs are ignored, you can file a complaint using the resources at DOLA’s official complaint portal.

Legal Authority and Where to Get Help

• Tribunal or Board: Residential tenancy disputes in Colorado are handled by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Division of Housing and the local County or District Courts.
• State Legislation: Protections are found in the Colorado Warranty of Habitability Act and relevant landlord-tenant statutes.

FAQs: Demanding Repairs Before Move-In in Colorado

1. Can I refuse to move in if repairs aren’t made? Yes. If your landlord does not fix serious habitability problems after written notice, you may delay your move-in or negotiate lease changes without penalty.
2. How soon must my landlord make repairs in Colorado? For hazardous conditions (like no heat, broken plumbing, or mold), landlords generally have 24-96 hours after you provide written notice, depending on the severity of the problem.
3. What should my repair request include? List your name, rental address, description and photos of each issue, and your preferred resolution or deadline, and always keep a copy for your records.
4. Is there an official repair request form in Colorado? No. A written letter or email is legally acceptable. Just be sure to detail all issues and send it to your landlord.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord does not respond? Contact the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Division of Housing or seek help through your local county or district court.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Colorado renters have the right to demand a safe, habitable home before moving in under state law.
• Always provide a detailed written repair request and keep copies for your records.
• Contact the Department of Local Affairs or local courts if repairs are not made after notice.

Taking these steps will help ensure that your new home meets Colorado’s habitability standards and that your rights are protected from the very start of your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Division of Housing – Landlord-Tenant Information
• Colorado Warranty of Habitability Act
• Colorado Judicial Branch – Landlord/Tenant (Eviction) Forms
• For legal help: Your local county or district court, or Colorado Legal Services

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1. Colorado Warranty of Habitability Act (C.R.S. § 38-12-501 to 38-12-511)

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