Colorado recently enacted a significant tenant protection law, House Bill 24-1098, which introduces “just cause” eviction standards to enhance housing stability for renters across the state. Signed into law by Governor Jared Polis on April 19, 2024, this legislation is a substantial shift in tenant-landlord relations, ensuring that tenants cannot be evicted or denied lease renewal without a valid reason.
KEY PROVISIONS OF HB24-1098:
Eviction Standards: Under the new law, landlords can only evict tenants for specific reasons, including:
1. Non-payment of rent.
2. Significant or repeated lease violations.
3. Causing a nuisance or property damage.
4. Engaging in illegal activities.
These provisions maintain the traditional grounds for eviction but add a layer of protection against arbitrary actions.
Lease Non-Renewal Conditions: The law also sets narrow conditions under which landlords can refuse to renew a lease:
1. If the property is to be demolished or converted to a non-residential use.
2. For substantial repairs or renovations.
3. If the landlord or a family member plans to move into the property.
4. If the property is being removed from the rental market or put up for sale.
In all these cases, landlords must provide at least 90 days’ written notice, detailing the planned changes or renovations.
Tenant Protections: HB24-1098 empowers tenants with legal grounds to challenge evictions and non-renewals that do not comply with these rules. Tenants who have lived in a property for at least 12 months can take their landlords to court if these protections are violated.
IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS
This law aims to prevent arbitrary and retaliatory evictions, providing tenants with greater housing security. By ensuring that evictions and non-renewals are for just cause, Colorado joins a growing number of states with similar protections, including New Jersey, California, and Washington (The Colorado Sun) (National Low Income Housing Coalition).
Tenant advocates have lauded this move as a significant step toward fairer housing practices, while landlords express concerns about the potential for increased legal disputes and operational constraints. However, the overarching goal remains to create a more stable and predictable rental market, benefiting both tenants and the broader community.
CONCLUSION
HB24-1098 represents a balanced approach to tenant protection, aiming to safeguard renters from unjust evictions while maintaining landlords’ rights to manage their properties effectively. As this law takes effect, it will be crucial for both landlords and tenants to understand their rights and responsibilities under the new regulations.
For more detailed legal advice or assistance with landlord-tenant matters, contact Pradhan & Backus for expert legal guidance tailored to your needs.
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