A law passed on January 1, 2026 declares that landlords must ensure premises are safe, habitable, and maintained throughout the tenancy, with stricter penalties for violations. Landlords must maintain rental units in a condition fit for human habitation – which includes protection against damage from environmental public health events.
So what does this mean for landlords? It means that landlords will be required to maintain certain living standards.
- For example, units must have functioning heat from Oct through April, running water, hot water, gas and electricity.
- Structural integrity must also be maintained. In other words, tenants can expect water-tight roofs, exterior walls, and properly maintained windows/doors with working locks.
- For the health and safety of the tenants, units must have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, accessible fire exits, and freedom from mold or pest infestations (rodents, bed bugs).
- And finally, at the time of move-in, all appliances must be in good working order.
Tenants must provide written notice to the landlord if any of these conditions are not met. Landlords have 24 hours to begin remediation for repairs in emergency situations, and 96 hours to begin those repairs that are for non-emergency issues.
If repairs aren’t made, tenants have the ability to terminate their lease and deduct some costs from rent.
All owners should know and understand this Warranty of Habitability. Be sure to check out this information.
Do you have repairs that need to be made to your properties? Restoration 1 of West Denver is your go-to team for damage restoration and repairs. We are professionals that are highly trained to perform work correctly. We have expertise in water damage cleanup, mold removal and asbestos abatement. We are also the best fire and smoke restoration experts in the area.
If you have any properties where conditions may be suspect to habitability issues, give us a call immediately at 720-605-2994. We are licensed, trained and professional and can take care of your needs immediately.