Can my landlord increase rent during my school-year lease?

Rent cannot be increased on a fixed-term lease unless your lease allows it. For month-to-month rentals, landlords must give 60 days' written notice of any rent increase.

What should I do if my landlord won’t fix urgent repairs?

Send a written repair request and keep documentation. If not addressed, you can seek remedies under Colorado's Warranty of Habitability laws or contact state resources.

Can my roommate break the lease without affecting me?

If you both signed the lease, you're likely jointly responsible. If your roommate leaves, you may be responsible for their share unless the landlord agrees otherwise.

Is my student housing deposit different from a regular apartment deposit?

No, student renters have the same deposit protections and responsibilities as any other Colorado renter.

Where can I find legal support as a student renter?

Check your university's legal services, contact the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, or file in County Court for legal support.

Student Housing Rights: Colorado College Renters Guide

Special Housing Types & Situations Colorado published June 21, 2025

Whether you’re moving into your first off-campus apartment or navigating shared student housing, knowing your rights as a college renter in Colorado is essential. This guide explains key protections, responsibilities, and where to turn if issues arise.

Understanding Rental Agreements for Student Housing in Colorado

In Colorado, student renters are protected by state laws just like other tenants. Most student housing rentals use one of two contract types:

Fixed-term leases: A contract for a set length of time (usually the academic year). You may still be responsible for rent if you leave early, unless you or the landlord find a replacement tenant.
Month-to-month leases: Automatically renew each month and can be ended with advance written notice by either you or your landlord.

Leases must be in writing to protect both parties and should clearly state rent amount, deposit terms, and rules about guests or subletting.

Security Deposits: What You Should Know

Colorado law limits how and when your security deposit can be kept or returned. Your landlord has one month (or up to 60 days if the lease says so) after you move out to return your deposit, minus any damages or unpaid rent. You must provide a forwarding address in writing.

Filing a Security Deposit Dispute

First, send a written demand for your deposit by certified mail.
If you don’t get a refund or explanation within the legal timeframe, you may file a claim in Colorado County Court under the state’s small claims process.
The Notice to Landlord - Security Deposit Dispute is commonly used (no official form number). Download an example and instructions from the Colorado courts sample letter.

Eviction Protections for College Students

While student renters do not receive special eviction protections, you have important legal rights under the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38, Article 12 governing Landlord and Tenant law.

Landlords must provide a written notice if they seek to end your lease or evict you.
Three-Day Demand for Compliance or Possession (JDF 101): This official form gives you three days to fix a lease violation (like unpaid rent) or move out. View and use the form on the Colorado Courts website.
If you receive an eviction notice, contact your campus legal services or local tenant assistance right away.

Maintenance, Repairs, and Habitability

Student renters have the right to safe and livable housing. Colorado’s ‘Warranty of Habitability’ means landlords must keep units up to code and fix serious issues.

Request repairs in writing and keep copies for your records.
If repairs are not made in a reasonable time, you may file a complaint or seek remedies under state law. Read more at the Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Renter Rights page.

Tip: Many campus housing offices offer sample letters and guidance for repair requests—check your university’s student life site.

Roommates, Subletting, and Lease Transfers

Sharing housing is common in student rentals. Remember these pointers:

If adding or removing roommates, ask your landlord for approval in writing—it often requires a lease amendment.
Subletting your space while away for part of the term can be allowed if your lease permits it and you get landlord consent.
Some leases include “joint and several liability,” meaning everyone is responsible for the full rent amount, not just your individual share.

Relevant Tribunals, Legislation, and Where to File Complaints

Colorado County and District Courts oversee residential tenancy matters, evictions, and deposit disputes. Find your local court at the Colorado Judicial Branch: County Courts.
Governing law: Colorado Revised Statutes – Title 38, Article 12: Landlord and Tenant ^[1]

For most rental issues, start by contacting your landlord in writing. If resolution fails, use your campus legal services or file in County Court.

FAQ: Common Questions for Colorado Student Renters

Can my landlord increase rent during my school-year lease?
Rent can only be raised during a fixed-term lease if your lease specifically allows it. For month-to-month rentals, landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice before raising rent. Refer to Colorado Department of Local Affairs Renter Rights for updates.
What should I do if my landlord won’t fix urgent repairs?
First, send a written request and document the issue. If it’s not resolved, you may have the right to withhold rent or end your lease under “Warranty of Habitability” laws. Contact the Colorado Office of Resident Services for help.
Can my roommate break the lease without affecting me?
If you both signed the same lease, you’re likely jointly responsible for the full rent. If your roommate leaves, you may need to cover their share unless your landlord agrees to adjust the lease.
Is my student housing deposit different from a regular apartment deposit?
No. Student renters enjoy the same deposit protections—and responsibilities—as any other renter under state law.
Where can I find legal support as a student renter?
Start with your university’s legal services or student advocacy office. For larger issues, contact your local County Court or the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.

Conclusion: What to Remember as a Colorado College Renter

Know your lease type and your obligations before signing.
Protect yourself: Get all communication with your landlord in writing.
Use official channels, government forms, and tenant rights resources if you encounter difficulties.

While student housing can bring unique situations, your core legal rights are clear and protected under Colorado law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Renter Rights & Complaints
Find Your County Court – Colorado Judicial Branch
CU Boulder Student Legal Services (Check your university for a similar office)
Colorado Legal Services – Tenants
Colorado Office of Resident Services