If you’re a renter in Denver, Colorado, you know that the state has some of the most stringent laws in the country when it comes to rental property inspections. In fact, every year, the City of Denver conducts an estimated 20,000 inspections of rental properties.
So, what does this mean for you? If you’re a landlord, it means that you need to be diligent about keeping your rental units up to par. If you’re a renter, it means that you should know your rights when it comes to rental inspections in Denver CO. Here are a few things you should keep in mind.
- Rental Inspections Are Required by Law
In Denver, all rentals are required to undergo an annual inspection by the city. Landlords are responsible for scheduling these inspections and ensuring that their units meet all code requirements. If you’re a tenant, your landlord should provide you with at least twenty-four hours’ notice before an inspection is conducted.
- Tenants Have the Right to Be Present During Inspections
If you’re present during your rental unit’s inspection, the inspector will provide you with a list of any violations that need to be corrected. You’ll also be given a timeframe for making these corrections.
- You Can Appeal an Inspection Decision
If you disagree with an inspector’s decision, you have the right to appeal. You’ll need to submit your appeal within ten days of receiving notice of the violations. An appeals board will then review your case and decide.
- Landlords Are Responsible for Making Repairs
Once rental inspections in Denver, CO, have been conducted and violations have been found, it’s up to the landlord to make any necessary repairs. The landlord must also keep records of all repairs made and provide these records to tenants upon request.
Keep in mind that landlords are not required to make cosmetic repairs; they are only responsible for repairing issues that affect habitability or safety.
- Tenants Have Recourse if Repairs Aren’t Made
If your landlord fails to make necessary repairs in a timely manner, you have several options available to you. You can withhold rent until the repairs are made or file a complaint with the city’s housing department. In extreme cases, you may even be able to terminate your lease agreement early.
