Sound Structure in Colorado Rentals

In Denver and across Colorado, landlords are obligated to provide habitable properties for their renters. A big part of that is providing a structurally sound rental property. Read on to find out what a sound structure is and what landlords and tenants can do if there is a dispute about the safety of a rental.

Need more help with your rental, either as a tenant or landlord? Reach out to Flaxman Law Group at 970-999-0530 for a consultation to discuss whether mediation or a legal claim could help your situation. Your consultation comes with no obligation and your conversations with us are confidential.

The Significance of a Sound Structure in Colorado

A sound rental structure is one that is safe and free from issues such as broken stairs, unstable foundations, collapsing walls and ceilings, and pests. Sound structures are not just important for the safety of renters and all visitors, but to protect Colorado landlords from liability.

Maintaining a sound structure also protects the value of a landlord’s investment. A well-maintained property is more attractive to quality tenants and retains its value. It’s easier to rent and if the landlord ever decides to sell, a well-maintained structure is easier to sell at a good price.

Landlord and Tenant Roles in Ensuring a Sound Structure

Here are a few things landlords can do to ensure sound structures:

• When buying a new investment property, have it inspected so you’re aware of any structural issues and can fix them before tenants can move in.
• Conduct periodic inspections of your rental unit to identify any structural issues, such as water damage, cracks in walls or ceilings, or uneven floors.
• Fix structural issues or minor problems fast, before they become serious problems.
• Regularly verify that your investment property meets current building codes and safety standards.
• Always reply to tenant concerns and follow up, to prevent landlord-tenant disputes.
• Take photos, videos, and written notes of the property condition during every inspection, so you have documentation about the state of the property.

Tenants can help, too, by reporting any issues promptly and by taking steps to keep the property tidy and preventing tenant-caused damage. Renters may also want to take photos and written notes of any damages and any requests for repairs they’ve made to the landlord.

Handling Disputes Related to Sound Structure in Colorado Rentals

While both Colorado renters and landlords have motives to keep a property in good repair, disputes related to the structural condition of a rental property can arise. For example, a tenant may notice cracks in the foundation of a rental, but a landlord may claim the cracks are simply cosmetic. If the tenant doesn’t agree, a landlord-tenant dispute can happen.

Here's how to address such issues:

• Document everything. Maintain a detailed record of all communication with your landlord or tenant regarding structural issues. Include dates, times, and the content of your messages. Take pictures and write down everything you notice about the potential issue.
• Look at the lease agreement. Make sure you’re following the correct procedure for reporting or addressing structural problems.
• Talk to a Denver or Colorado landlord-tenant dispute attorney. An experienced lawyer at Flaxman Law Group can represent your interests and can help you seek solutions.

Do You Need a Denver or Colorado Landlord-Tenant Dispute Lawyer?

You might think knowing the difference between an unsound and sound structure in Colorado is easy, but in Denver, Boulder, and across the state renters and landlords disagree about what represents key structural issues and minor issues that don’t need attention.

A landlord-tenant dispute over structural issues can be dangerous. If there is a structural problem that doesn’t get addressed, it can cause injuries to visitors and inhabitants of the property, exposing the landlord to legal claims.

Whether you are a tenant facing structural issues or a landlord seeking guidance on fulfilling your responsibilities, you can always reach out to the family-based law firm of Flaxman Law Group for help. Our father-son attorney team may be able to help you through negotiation, mediation, or a legal claim. Contact us today at 970-999-0530 for a consultation.

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