Can my landlord inspect my apartment without giving notice in Colorado?

No. Except for emergencies or with your permission, landlords must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering your unit.

What should I do if my landlord comes in without permission?

Document the incident, notify your landlord in writing, and file a complaint with the Colorado Division of Housing if the situation is not resolved.

Are there exceptions to the 24-hour notice rule?

Yes. Landlords may enter without notice in emergency situations or if you directly request urgent maintenance.

Can I refuse entry if the landlord doesn’t follow the notice requirements?

Yes, unless it’s an emergency, you can refuse entry if the landlord has not provided proper notice.

Where can I get help with landlord privacy violations?

You can contact the Colorado Division of Housing or local legal aid organizations for support and to make a formal complaint.

Surprise Landlord Inspections: Colorado Renter Rights

Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Colorado published June 21, 2025

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Colorado, it’s important to know your rights when it comes to privacy and your landlord’s ability to enter your unit. Many renters wonder if landlords can perform surprise inspections or enter without notice. This guide explains Colorado’s law on landlord entry, how much notice is required, and what you can do if those rights are violated.

Landlord Entry: Colorado’s Rules

In Colorado, your right to privacy in your rented unit is protected by state law. However, there are situations where your landlord can enter the property—each with specific rules.

When Can a Landlord Enter?

With Reasonable Notice: For most reasons, such as inspections, repairs, or showing the unit to future tenants or buyers, landlords must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering.
Without Notice (Emergencies): A landlord may enter without notice if there’s an emergency—like a fire, flooding, or a severe maintenance issue that threatens health or property.
When You Request Repairs or Maintenance: If you put in a maintenance request, the landlord can respond to that request without further written notice at a reasonable hour.

Colorado law explains these requirements under the Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38, Article 12 (Residential Landlord and Tenant Act)¹.

Are Surprise Inspections Allowed?

In most typical situations, landlords are not allowed to perform surprise inspections in Colorado. The law requires at least 24 hours’ written or verbal notice for any entry that’s not an emergency or a response to your maintenance request. Inspections are considered the same as other non-emergency entries. This means your landlord cannot legally show up for a random or unannounced inspection.

Your Rights and Your Responsibilities

As a renter, you have the right to privacy and quiet enjoyment of your home. If your landlord enters without proper notice or does so repeatedly or unreasonably, it may amount to a violation of your tenant rights.

You can deny entry if the landlord has not given the required notice (unless it is an emergency).
If your privacy is violated, you may file a complaint or seek action through the courts.

Always request written notice for any inspection. Written records can help protect your rights if disputes arise.

Official Forms and How They’re Used

Landlord Notice of Entry Form (Recommended):
- This is not a mandatory government form but is commonly used to notify renters of upcoming landlord entry.
- Landlords should provide at least 24 hours’ written or verbal notice clearly stating the date, time, and purpose of entry.
Complaint Form – Division of Housing:
- If a renter believes the landlord is violating privacy rights, you can submit a complaint to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing.
- Use the Online Housing Complaint Form to start this process.
- Example: If your landlord enters without notice repeatedly, you may submit this form for investigation and advice.

Who Oversees Tenancy Issues in Colorado?

Housing disputes, including entry violations, are overseen by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), Division of Housing.

What If My Landlord Enters Without Notice?

If your landlord enters your home without proper notice or for reasons not allowed by law, you have options:

Document each incident, including date, time, and what occurred.
Communicate your concerns to your landlord in writing.
File a complaint using the state’s complaint form if the problem continues.

This section shows the step-by-step actions you can take if your landlord violates Colorado’s entry laws.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can my landlord inspect my apartment without giving notice in Colorado?
No. Except for emergencies or with your permission, landlords must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering your unit.
What should I do if my landlord comes in without permission?
Document the incident, notify your landlord in writing, and file a complaint with the Colorado Division of Housing if the situation is not resolved.
Are there exceptions to the 24-hour notice rule?
Yes. Landlords may enter without notice in emergency situations or if you directly request urgent maintenance.
Can I refuse entry if the landlord doesn’t follow the notice requirements?
Yes, unless it’s an emergency, you can refuse entry if the landlord has not provided proper notice.
Where can I get help with landlord privacy violations?
You can contact the Colorado Division of Housing or local legal aid organizations for support and to make a formal complaint.

Key Takeaways for Colorado Renters

Landlords in Colorado must give at least 24 hours’ notice for inspections or non-emergency entry.
Surprise inspections are not allowed except for emergencies or by your request.
Document any violations and contact official state resources if your privacy rights are not respected.

By staying informed and proactive, you can help ensure your right to privacy in your Colorado rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), Landlord-Tenant Information: Official state hub for renter rights and disputes.
Online Housing Complaint Form: File a privacy or landlord entry complaint with the state.
Colorado Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 38, Article 12): Full text of the relevant tenancy law.
Colorado Legal Services: Free and low-cost legal help for residential tenants.

Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38, Article 12. Colorado Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Legislation PDF
Colorado Department of Local Affairs – Landlord-Tenant Resources