Who is responsible for repairs?

The general rule in Colorado is that the landlord is not responsible for maintaining or repairing the unit. There are only a few limited exceptions to this general rule:

  • If the landlord is not available to do the walkthrough, the tenant should complete the checklist anyway and give the landlord a copy. Try to get a friend to witness the condition of the unit or take pictures, specifically of any damaged or defective item in the unit. This information can prove invaluable when trying to get a return of the security deposit. Photographs and witnesses can prove that a condition existed at the beginning of the lease term.
  • The parties have agreed otherwise, and the lease so provides.
  • The landlord is responsible for maintaining the parts of the building which are under the landlord's exclusive control. For example, the landlord maintains the stairwells, hallways, laundry rooms and roof of an apartment building since these are part of the building under the landlord's control. However, since the roof of a single-family house that is rented entirely, to one tenant is not under the landlord's control, the landlord has no obligation to repair it unless the parties have agreed otherwise.
  • The landlord must repair hazardous conditions caused by gas-burning equipment.
  • The landlord must correct dangerous, latent conditions.

Show All Answers

1. Who is responsible for repairs?
2. Can a tenant make repairs and deduct the cost from rent?
3. What if the tenant is injured by an unsafe condition in the unit?
4. What if damage results from problems in the common areas?
5. What can the tenant do if the unit falls into disrepair?
6. Are gas-related repairs treated differently?