What are the New Laws in Colorado Related to Leasing, Animals, and Pets?
Posted May 23, 2024 in Landlord Tenant and Leasing, Real Estate
As discussed in our summary blog here, landlord tenant law in Colorado has seen significant change since the pandemic era.
Below we have provided a summary of the new laws that every landlord, property manager, and tenant needs to know. If you are a landlord, owner, or property manager, read carefully, and do your own research, as these changes may impact how your leases need to be drafted. And, many changes include penalties for non-compliance.
2023 updates (2023 Colo. H.B. 1068)
Protections for Pets During Evictions
- Deputy Sheriff must now check for pets on the premises during eviction and ensure either the tenant or animal control takes custody of the pets. Cannot just leave pets unattended or abandoned. (See C.R.S. 13-40-122)
- If tenant is not present, the Landlord must post notice on premises regarding the name/contact info of where to find the pet. (See C.R.S. 13-40-122)
Pet definition Applicable to these new laws (See C.R.S. 13-40-122)
- A Pet Animal is defined as “dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, rats, gerbils, ferrets, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, or any other species of wild or domestic or hybrid animal sold, transferred, or retained for the purpose of being kept as a household pet, except livestock, as defined in subsection (9) of this section. “Pet animal” does not include an animal that is used for working purposes on a farm or ranch.” See C.R.S. 35-80-102(10).
Pet Deposits & Pet Rent
- Section 106 of the Security Deposit Act added to limit pet deposits to $300 or less, which must be refundable. (See C.R.S. 38-12-106).
- Pet rent may not exceed $35/month or 1.5% of rent, whichever is greater.
Landlord Liens on pets
- Landlords do not have a lien on pets for unpaid rent. (See C.R.S. 38-20-102(3)).
CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN COLORADO TODAY
For further information and advice regarding new landlord tenant laws on pets and animals, reach out to Volpe Law today to request a consultation. We can be contacted through our online form, or you call us directly at (720) 441-3328. Our team of dedicated attorneys are here to listen and identify the best legal options for you.
DISCLAIMER
The information contained on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be construed as providing legal advice on any subject matter. Laws frequently change and therefore this content is not necessarily up to date, nor comprehensive. Contact us or another attorney with any legal questions specific to your matter. You may request a consultation by completing our consultation request form.