Who Pays for Utilities in Colorado Rentals? Tenant Rights

Understanding who is responsible for paying for utilities in Colorado rentals is crucial for both tenants and landlords. This article explains Colorado laws surrounding utilities, lease agreements, utility billing, and what you can do if you run into problems with your landlord or your services are disrupted.

Who Is Legally Responsible for Utilities in Colorado Rentals?

In Colorado, utility responsibility—including water, gas, electric, and trash removal—is typically determined by your lease agreement. Colorado law doesn’t automatically require landlords to pay utilities, so it’s vital that your lease clearly states who pays what. Utilities may include:

• Electricity
• Natural gas or propane
• Water and sewer
• Trash and recycling
• Cable, internet, or phone (if covered in lease)

Most residential leases include a utilities section. Review this before signing, and ask for clarity if any utilities are not specifically mentioned.

Lease Agreement: Your Primary Guide

Colorado state law, governed by the Colorado Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act, allows landlords and tenants to negotiate who pays for each utility.^[1] If your lease mentions you must pay certain utilities, you’re responsible for setting up accounts and making timely payments. If the landlord agrees to pay, it should be stated in writing.

What If the Lease Is Silent on Utilities?

If your lease does not mention utilities, the default assumption is that the landlord is responsible. You can ask for clarification or request a lease addendum before moving in.

When Landlords Bill Tenants for Utilities

Sometimes, the landlord will keep the bills in their name and bill tenants for usage. Colorado law requires landlords to provide copies of the utility bills and a clear explanation of any administrative fees. Landlords are prohibited from charging tenants more than their actual usage or share of the utility service.

• Landlords must disclose any utility billing arrangement in the lease.
• If tenants are billed directly by the landlord, you’re entitled to review the actual bills.

If there’s ever a dispute, you can contact the Colorado Division of Housing or file a formal complaint if you believe your utility charges are unfair or unlawful.

Utility Shutoff Protections for Renters

Under Colorado law, landlords cannot shut off utilities as a way to force you to move out—even if you’re late on rent. Doing so can expose a landlord to penalties under the Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act.^[1]

Required Utility Notices and Official Forms

There isn’t a state-specific utility complaint form, but you can file a grievance using the general Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form provided by the Colorado Division of Housing.^[2]

• Form Name: Colorado Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
• When to Use: If you have a serious complaint related to utilities, lease violations, or landlord harassment
• How to Use: Complete the online form or print and submit it to the Division of Housing; provide copies of your lease, utility bills, and any correspondence
• Access the Official Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form

Disputing Utility Charges or Billing Issues

If you believe you’re being unfairly charged for utilities, or your landlord has not disclosed the billing method, follow these steps:

• Request a written breakdown of all charges and copies of actual bills
• Contact the Colorado Division of Housing for guidance or mediation
• If unresolved, file a formal complaint using the official complaint form

If You Need Further Action

Legal disputes over utilities may be taken to your local Colorado County Court (handling residential tenancy hearings). This is where you can request damages or seek an injunction if utilities are wrongfully disconnected.

1. What utilities does a Colorado landlord have to provide?
   There is no statewide rule requiring landlords to pay for any specific utility, unless stated in your lease. However, landlords must keep the property habitable, including maintaining essential services like heat, water, and electricity as defined in the lease agreement.
2. Can a landlord shut off my utilities if I’m late on rent?
   No. Colorado law prohibits landlords from shutting off or intentionally disrupting utility services to force a tenant out or as a response to nonpayment of rent.
3. What should I do if I’m overcharged for utilities?
   First, request copies of the actual bills and a detailed statement. If the issue is unresolved, use the Colorado Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form and contact the Division of Housing for help.
4. Who do I contact if I have a utilities dispute I can’t resolve?
   You can contact the Colorado Division of Housing for guidance, or escalate your case to the Colorado County Court for formal resolution.
5. Is there a standard form to report landlord utility violations?
   Yes. Use the official Colorado Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form from the Division of Housing.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Check your lease—most utility arrangements are set by contract in Colorado
• Landlords must provide written disclosure of any shared utility billing and actual costs
• Utility shutoff as an eviction method is illegal

If issues arise, contact the Colorado Division of Housing or your local court for support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Division of Housing: Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Official Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
• Colorado County Courts – Residential Tenancy Disputes
• Colorado Legal Services – Free Tenant Legal Help

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1. See: Colorado Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act
2. See: Colorado Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form, Division of Housing

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