The Colorado legislature passed several laws in 2024 that significantly impacted landlords and property managers. Here’s a summary of some key changes:
- HB24-1098 Cause Required for Eviction for Residential Tenants: This law defines lease non-renewals as a “no-fault eviction” with a few exceptions. Landlords must now be extra cautious and seek legal guidance if they decide not to renew a lease with their tenant.
- HB24-094 Safe Housing for Residential Tenants: This extensive bill redefines how maintenance must be handled on all residential properties. It outlines specific procedures that landlords must follow to address habitability concerns raised by tenants.
- HB24-1318 Modify Rental Premises Person with Disability: Under this law, landlords are now responsible for covering all costs associated with modifying their properties to accommodate tenants with disabilities.
- HB24-1175 Local Governments Rights to Property for Affordable Housing: This law grants local governments an automatic first right to offer and first right of refusal whenever certain multi-family properties are put up for sale.
- HB24-1007 Prohibits Residential Occupancy Limits: Landlords and local governments are now prohibited from imposing residential occupancy limits.
- HB24-064 Monthly Residential Eviction Data & Reporting: This law mandates monthly tracking and reporting of eviction filings for local governments.
- HB24-1259 Price Gouging in Rent Declared Disaster: This law restricts the amount that rents can be increased during a declared disaster.
- HB24-1099 Defendant Filing Fees in Evictions: This law eliminates filing fees for defendants (tenants) in eviction proceedings.
- HB24-1286 Equal Justice Fund Authority: This law establishes a department for “equal justice authority” and introduces new charges for landlords on legal filings, which will be used to fund legal representation for low-income tenants.
These new laws have significant implications for landlords in Colorado. It is crucial to stay informed and understand your rights and responsibilities under these new regulations. If you have any questions or concerns, it is always advisable to consult with a qualified real estate attorney.