How much can my landlord charge for early lease termination in Colorado?

A landlord can charge no more than the lesser of your remaining rent owed or two months’ rent as an early termination fee in Colorado.

What should I do if my lease has no early termination clause?

If there’s no clause, you may owe rent until the unit is re-rented, but your landlord cannot demand penalties above the legal limits. Always give written notice.

Can I break my lease early if I am a domestic violence victim?

Yes. Colorado law lets victims end their lease without penalty, using proper documentation like JDF 998 and advance notice.

Is there an official form for ending a lease early in Colorado?

No official form is required for most lease terminations, but domestic violence victims should use JDF 998 to request early termination.

Who handles complaints about overcharged termination fees?

The Colorado Division of Housing (DOLA) manages complaints and offers guidance about illegal early termination charges.

Understanding Early Lease Termination Fees in Colorado

Moving Out & Ending a Lease Colorado published: June 21, 2025

Ending a rental lease before its official end date is a big decision for Colorado renters. If circumstances change—such as a job relocation, family issue, or safety concern—you may wonder how much it could cost, plus what your responsibilities are. Understanding early lease termination fees in Colorado can help protect your finances and rental record.

What Are Early Lease Termination Fees?

When you sign a lease in Colorado, you typically agree to rent the property for a set term—often 12 months. If you leave before your lease ends without a legally valid reason, your landlord may charge an early termination fee. This is money paid to compensate the landlord for breaking the agreement early.

Early termination fees are usually specified in your lease agreement.
If not specified, you could still be responsible for unpaid rent until the landlord finds a new tenant or the lease ends.
Colorado rental laws set certain limits and protections for renters regarding these fees.

Legal Requirements for Early Lease Termination Fees in Colorado

Colorado law (as updated in 2024) protects renters from excessive early termination fees and outlines how landlords must handle lease breaking. Recent changes to the Colorado Revised Statutes, specifically Section 38-12-801 to 38-12-803, limit these fees.

Landlords may not charge more than the lesser of your actual rent owed for the remainder of the lease or two months’ rent.
If the landlord successfully re-rents the property, they must stop charging you and refund any excess paid.
All terms about early termination fees must be clearly stated in your lease agreement.

When Are Early Termination Fees Not Allowed?

If you are a victim of domestic violence and have followed proper notice procedures under Colorado law, you may end your lease without a penalty. See domestic violence renter protections.
Soldiers or service members covered by the federal Servicemembers Civil Relief Act can break their lease without fees in many cases.

Always read your lease agreement and know when early termination fees apply versus when state or federal protections give you a penalty-free option.

How to Legally End Your Lease Early

If you need to leave before your lease ends, here are the practical steps to minimize risk and expense:

Check your lease for an Early Termination Clause—often outlining required fees and notice.
Give proper written notice to your landlord, following the lease or at least 21 days as a best practice.
Ask if your landlord is open to a mutual termination agreement. Negotiate the fee, if possible.
Keep documentation of all communications and payments.

If your lease includes a specific termination form, use it. Otherwise, deliver your notice in writing and keep a copy for your records.

Official Forms for Ending a Lease Early in Colorado

Notice to Vacate (No Official State Form): There is no standardized state form for notice to vacate, but you must give written notice. You can use your own written statement or a notice template, delivered in person or via certified mail. Make sure to include:

Your name and address
Lease end date (when you plan to move out)
Signature and date

For domestic violence victims: Request to Terminate Lease Due to Domestic Violence (JDF 998). Use this form if you qualify for protections. File it with your landlord, including required documentation as outlined on the form.
Example: If you have a protective order and need to move for safety, complete the Request to Terminate Lease Due to Domestic Violence and provide a copy to your landlord.

Your local housing authority or courthouse can assist you in preparing notices or understanding your rights under current law.

What if a Landlord Charges Too Much?

If your landlord tries to charge you more than allowed for early lease termination, you can file a complaint with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) – Division of Housing. This is the main agency handling residential tenancies in Colorado. You can also seek legal aid or mediation through state services.

Key Colorado Tenancy Legislation

Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 38, Article 12 — Landlord and Tenant rights and obligations
Division of Housing (DOLA) — Offers official guidance to renters and landlords

Refer to these resources for official rental laws and protections in Colorado.

Frequently Asked Questions about Early Lease Termination in Colorado

How much can my landlord charge for early lease termination in Colorado?
Landlords may charge the lesser of your remaining rent or two months’ rent. Excess fees are not allowed under state law.
What should I do if my lease has no early termination clause?
You are still responsible for rent until the landlord re-rents the unit, but you cannot be charged arbitrary or punitive fees. Always provide written notice and try to negotiate in good faith.
Can I break my lease early if I am facing domestic violence?
Yes, Colorado law allows renters experiencing domestic violence to terminate leases without penalty after providing proper documentation.
Is there an official form for ending a lease early in Colorado?
There is no required state form for giving notice in most cases. Domestic violence cases should use JDF 998 for requesting lease termination.
If my landlord overcharges me, who do I contact?
File a complaint or seek guidance from the Division of Housing (DOLA) or consult Colorado Legal Services.

Conclusion: Your Key Rights and Next Steps

Colorado limits early lease termination fees—know your exact rights before paying anything.
Always give written notice and keep copies for your records.
If you feel overcharged or confused, contact the Division of Housing for support.

Review your lease and state laws carefully, and don’t hesitate to reach out to official agencies for help if you’re unsure.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Colorado Division of Housing (DOLA) — Main agency for rental disputes and guidance
Colorado Judicial Branch Forms — Official court and housing forms
Colorado Legal Services — Free legal help for qualifying renters
Local county housing authorities — Find help with housing counseling and tenant support