Understanding Rent Caps and Local Rent Control Laws in Colorado

Renters across Colorado often have questions about how much a landlord can increase rent and whether their city or county has special protections. While rent control is a frequent topic nationwide, Colorado’s approach is unique—rent caps and ordinances can vary by local jurisdiction. If you’re renting in Colorado, it’s important to know what laws protect you and what steps you can take if you believe your rent has been unfairly increased.

Colorado’s Statewide Approach to Rent Control

Currently, Colorado does not have statewide rent control or blanket rent stabilization laws. The key law is the Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38 – Property – Real and Personal, which covers general landlord and tenant rights, but it does not set specific limits on how much rent can be raised.^[1]

• There is no statewide rent cap or restriction on rent increases.
• There are requirements for notice: landlords must provide written notice before raising rent (typically 21 days for month-to-month tenancies).

Local cities, however, may have their own ordinances or protections.

City-by-City: Local Rent Cap Ordinances in Colorado

While most Colorado cities follow state law, a few municipalities have passed ordinances that either discuss rent stabilization or tenant protections. Here is what you need to know:

Denver

• Denver currently does not have rent control or rent caps.
• The city requires landlords to register rental properties and comply with basic habitability standards. See Denver's Residential Rental Property Licensing for more.

Boulder

• Boulder does not have traditional rent control, but offers additional tenant protections and educational resources for renters.
• Boulder does not currently regulate maximum rent increases.

Mountain and Resort Towns

• Towns such as Aspen, Vail, and Telluride manage affordable housing programs and deed restrictions for income-qualified tenants. These may place rent restrictions on units managed by local housing authorities, but do not cover most private market rentals.

Recent Developments: Local Flexibility

In 2023, new legislation gave local governments more authority to explore rent stabilization initiatives.^[2] However, as of now, no major Colorado city has adopted binding, citywide rent caps for existing rental units.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

All Colorado renters should be aware of notice rules if their landlord intends to raise the rent:

• Month-to-month tenants: 21 days written notice required before a rent increase.^[3]
• Leases for 1-6 months: Also 21 days notice.
• Leases for 6+ months, but less than a year: 28 days notice.
• Leases of a year or longer: 91 days notice.

Notice must be in writing and delivered either personally or by mail. If your landlord fails to comply, you may have grounds to dispute a rent increase.

Important Forms for Colorado Renters

• Written Lease or Rental Agreement (no specific standard form): Used to clarify terms and ensure both parties understand their rights and responsibilities. Generally provided by your landlord. See Colorado landlord-tenant resources.
• Notice of Rent Increase (no state-issued number): Landlords must provide this in writing before raising rent. You can request a copy if not provided.

Renters who wish to file a complaint about a landlord action may contact:

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA): Landlord-Tenant Information
• Complaints are handled primarily at the Colorado Judicial Branch – County Court level for disputes such as unlawful rent increases, evictions, or failure to return security deposits.

What Can You Do If Your Rent Is Increased?

Since most of Colorado does not have rent control, landlords can generally increase rent with proper notice. However, if you suspect the increase is retaliatory or discriminatory, you have options:

• Ask your landlord for clarification in writing.
• Contact your local housing authority or the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.
• If needed, file a formal dispute in Colorado County Court – forms and guidance are found on the Colorado Judicial Branch Forms page.

Sample Action Steps for Challenging a Rent Increase

If you believe a rent increase is improper, you may follow these steps:

• Review your lease and the notice provided.
• Send a written request to your landlord for more information or an explanation.
• Contact your city housing office or DOLA for guidance or potential mediation.
• If unresolved, you may file a case in County Court using appropriate forms such as the "Complaint – Forcible Entry and Detainer (JDF 99)" for disputes involving rent or eviction; see Eviction & Landlord/Tenant Forms.

FAQ: Colorado Rent Cap Laws and Local Ordinances

1. Does Colorado have statewide rent control?
   Currently, Colorado has no statewide rent control law. Local governments may pass ordinances, but as of now, no major cities have comprehensive rent caps.
2. How much notice must my landlord give before a rent increase?
   Notice requirements vary depending on your lease length. For month-to-month rentals, 21 days written notice is required before raising rent.
3. Can my landlord raise the rent as much as they want?
   Generally, yes—if they follow required notice periods and don’t violate anti-discrimination or retaliation laws. Certain affordable housing units have restrictions.
4. What should I do if my rent goes up unexpectedly?
   First, review the notice and your lease. Reach out to your landlord for clarification. If you believe the increase is unlawful, contact your local housing department or file a complaint in County Court.
5. Where can I find official landlord-tenant guidance?
   You can start with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Landlord-Tenant Information page.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Rent Caps in Colorado

• Colorado does not have statewide rent caps, but local rules may vary.
• Landlords must give written notice before rent increases—timing depends on lease length.
• Contact your city housing office or the Colorado Department of Local Affairs for help if you face a sudden or large rent increase.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Landlord-Tenant Information
• Colorado Judicial Branch – County Courts for Landlord-Tenant Disputes
• Denver Residential Rental Property Licensing
• Boulder Tenant Rights and Support Resources

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1. Colorado Revised Statutes Title 38 – Article 12: Colorado Landlord–Tenant Law. Read the full statute.
2. Colorado General Assembly – HB23-1115 Local Control of Rents.
3. See official notice periods: HB19-1118 and Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-40-107(1)(a).

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