Boulder, Fraser, and other Colorado cities can see temperatures drop into the 20-30 degree range in the winter. Having proper heating and water isn’t just about being comfortable. In Colorado, it can be essential for safety.

All residential properties in Colorado have an implied warranty of habitability, meaning tenants should expect their rentals to be livable, with basic services such as heating, running water, and hot water. When a landlord fails to provide adequate heat and water in Colorado, it’s useful to talk to a landlord-tenant dispute lawyer to resolve the issue fast.

Your comfort, health and safety may be on the line, so don’t delay. If you’re a tenant who does not have running water, hot water, and/or adequate heating in your rental, or have other habitability issues that are not being addressed, contact Flaxman Law Group. Call us at 970-999-0530 for a consultation with a Colorado tenant-landlord dispute attorney. Our family-based law firm is committed to making sure rentals are safe and compliant and we put our more than 60 years of combined experience to work for you.

For Tenants: Your Role in Ensuring Adequate Heat and Water in Colorado

Whether you’re a renter in the city or mountains, you can expect even a modest home to have access to basics such as hot water, heat, and running water. In fact, under the implied warranty of habitability, you’re guaranteed access to adequate heat and water. Here’s how to make sure you protect that right:

• Always keep copies of all written communication with your landlord, including your lease agreement.
• If your water or heat stops, immediately inform your landlord at once in writing and ask for information about when the water and heat will be turned back on.
• Take photos of videos of any problems with heating and water, especially if it becomes a repeat issue.
• Take measures to prepare for cold weather, such as using draft stoppers for windows and doors or adding additional insulation if your rental property allows it.
• Implement energy-saving practices like using space heaters and adjusting thermostats to conserve heat efficiently.

For Landlords: Your Role in Ensuring Adequate Heat and Water in Colorado Rentals

Sometimes, landlords find their rental units lack heat and hot water, despite their best efforts. Here are ways to prevent the disruption of these critical services:

• Use a routine maintenance schedule to ensure heating and water systems are functioning correctly and to reduce the risk of future problems.
• When buying a new investment property, conduct a thorough inspection so you know about ongoing plumbing and heating problems and can upgrade them if needed.
• Work with reputable contractors who can respond to water, plumbing, and heating issues fast.
• Respond to tenant complaints fast and keep renters aware of all the steps you’re taking to resolve water and heating problems fast.
• Keep copies of all communication with tenants and evidence of all efforts you’ve made to fix any maintenance issues.

Handling Disputes Related to Heating and Water

Despite best efforts on the part of both renters and landlords, disputes related to heating and water can arise. A landlord may not be able to resolve a breakdown in crucial systems quickly enough to keep a tenant safe, for example, leading to disagreements about the most reasonable course of action. A tenant may want to withhold rent or get compensation for time spent without crucial services. In some cases, renters may not agree to let landlords access the rental to make necessary repairs.

Working with a Colorado tenant-landlord dispute lawyer can make a difference. Whether you’re a landlord or tenant in Boulder, Denver, or any other community across the state, please call Flaxman Law Group at 970-999-0530. Our Denver offices are happy to set up a consultation for you with a Colorado tenant-landlord dispute attorney, so you can find out more about your rights and legal options. With our family-focused, client-first approach and our more than 60 years of combined experience, our team is here to help.