Property Management Education

New law caps pet rent and pet deposits for Colorado landlords

Key points:

  • Effective date: 1/1/2024

  • A new cap on both pet rent and deposits 

  • What to do with a pet during an eviction 

Colorado House Bill 23-1068 places new restrictions on landlords when renting to tenants with pets. 

HB23-1068 - Concerning pet animal ownership and housing, and, in connection therewith, prohibiting restrictions on dog breed for obtaining homeowners insurance, providing for the manner in which pet animals are handled when a writ of restitution is executed, limiting security deposits and rent for pet animals and excluding pet animals from personal property liens.

Main Points Of The Law:

1. Breed Restrictions and Insurance Coverage

Under this legislation, insurance companies are now precluded from discriminatory practices based on a dog's breed. Specifically, denial, alteration, cancellation, or premium adjustments are forbidden solely on the grounds of a dog's breed. However, it is pertinent to note that insurance providers retain the right to make adjustments if a particular dog has been identified as dangerous through documented incidents.


2. Evictions and Pet Protocol

In instances of tenant eviction where the resident is absent, leaving behind a pet, the bill mandates the involvement of animal control. This provision ensures a humane approach to safeguarding the welfare of animals during challenging circumstances.


3. Pets and Evictions

If a pet is present during an eviction, and the tenant is not there animal control must be contacted to take custody of the pet.


4. Caps on Pet Deposits and Rent

Landlords are subject to limitations regarding pet-related financial arrangements. A cap of $300 is imposed on pet deposits, irrespective of the property's rental rate. Furthermore, should landlords opt to institute pet rent to mitigate potential wear and tear, there are explicit caps—$35 per month or 1.5% of the monthly rent, whichever is greater.


4. Effective Date: January 1, 2024

These rules go into effect on January 1, 2024 and it is important for both landlords and residents to acquaint themselves with these amendments to ensure compliance with the new legal framework.

The legislation introduces unique provisions, such as prohibiting landlords from placing a lien on a tenant's pet. While this may seem unconventional, it underscores the comprehensive nature of the bill.

At Grace Property Management, we are here to assist you. If you're a current owner-client, rest assured that we'll take care of these Radon-related matters as part of our full-service property management service to you. If you have any questions or need guidance, feel free to reach out to us.

We believe that when property management is performed with integrity, both tenants and landlords benefit. Property Management is not just our business - it is a relationship between us, our owner-clients, and our tenant-residents. If these are important to you, we may be a good fit to provide you, your property, and your tenant residence with our award-winning property management service. Feel free to reach out to us for assistance.

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