Tenant's Rental Checklist

1. Before Signing the Lease

1. Review the Lease Agreement Carefully

   • Confirm all terms: rent amount, due date, late fees, lease duration.

   • Ensure the lease includes details about:

     1. Pet policy and deposits.

     2. Maintenance responsibilities.

     3. Rules about subletting or guests.

2. Inspect the Property

   • Document any existing damages in writing and with dated photos.

   • Complete a Move-In Inspection Checklist signed by both tenant and landlord.

3. Understand the Pet Policy

   • Confirm if pets are allowed.

   • Ask about non-refundable pet fees, pet deposits, or monthly pet rent.

   • Clarify liability for pet-related damages.

2. During the Tenancy

• Pay Rent on Time

  • Keep records of every payment (receipts, bank statements).

• Report Maintenance Issues Promptly

  • Notify landlord in writing for plumbing, electrical, or structural issues.

  • Landlord must respond to urgent repairs within a reasonable time.

• Avoid Unauthorized Changes

  • Do not paint, remodel, or install fixtures without written approval.

• Respect Common Rules

  • Follow quiet hours, trash disposal rules, pet control, etc.

3. Before Moving Out

• Give Proper Notice

  • Colorado law generally requires a written 30-day notice for month-to-month leases unless otherwise stated.

• Clean the Property Thoroughly

  • Deep clean all surfaces, floors, appliances, and bathrooms.

  • Remove all belongings and trash.

• Repair Tenant-Caused Damages

  • Patch nail holes, replace broken fixtures, and repair pet damage.

• Request Final Walk-Through

  • Schedule a walk-through with the landlord to discuss any issues.

4. Security Deposit Rules (Colorado Law)

• Deposit Return Timeline

  • Landlord must return the deposit within 30 days (or up to 60 days if stated in the lease).

• Allowable Deductions

  • Unpaid rent.

  • Damage beyond normal wear and tear (e.g., pet stains, holes in walls).

  • Cleaning costs if not done properly.

• Security Deposit Amount

  • In Colorado, landlords can generally charge a security deposit of up to one month's rent, but there are exceptions for pet owners and subsidized housing. Landlords should also be aware of potential issues like discrimination if charging widely varying amounts. 

  • Landlords can charge an additional pet deposit, limited to 25% of one month's rent.

• Get an Itemized List

  • Landlord must provide a written statement of any deductions.

  • Keep photos and move-in documentation to dispute unfair charges.

5. If There’s a Dispute

• Try Direct Communication

  • Send a written request to resolve the issue.

  • Keep a copy of all correspondence.

• Use Mediation is recomanded

  • Contact a local mediation service (many are free or low-cost).

  • A neutral third party helps you and the landlord reach an agreement.

  • Mediation is faster and cheaper than court.

• Small Claims Court 

  • You can sue for up to $7,500 if your deposit is unfairly withheld.

  • File in County Court, but only after attempting mediation or good-faith negotiation.

Suggested Documents to Keep

• Copy of lease agreement.

• Rent payment receipts.

• Emails or texts with landlord.

• Photos of move-in and move-out condition.

• Mediation records or court documents (if applicable).