Landlord Tenant Dispute Lawyers in Lakewood CO
About one-third of people who live in Colorado rent their homes. When the relationship between landlords and tenants goes well, it is mutually beneficial. Landlords make money through their investment, and tenants get a place to live.
However, when a rental relationship turns tense, the stakes are high. If you are a tenant, you may be facing unsafe living conditions, sudden rent increases, or an eviction notice you don’t understand. As a landlord, you might be dealing with unpaid rent, property damage, or tenants who refuse to leave, all of which can make it hard to meet your own financial obligations.
In Lakewood, where rental properties range from historic homes near Belmar to apartment complexes along West Colfax Avenue, landlord-tenant disputes are common.
At Flaxman Law Group, we help landlords and tenants in Lakewood and across Jefferson County navigate disputes. With over 60 years of combined legal experience and a family-run approach, we help you make sense of Colorado’s landlord-tenant laws so you can make informed decisions and protect your rights. We can also represent you in negotiations and any legal action, so your rights are protected. If you are a landlord or tenant who is facing challenges with your tenant or landlord, contact 970-999-0530 to schedule your consultation with landlord-tenant dispute lawyers in Lakewood, CO.
Why Turn to Flaxman Law Group for Landlord-Tenant Disputes in Lakewood?
Landlord-tenant disagreements often involve people’s homes, investments, and sense of security. Working with landlord-tenant dispute lawyers in Lakewood, CO is one way to resolve your situation.
While you have many options when it comes to landlord-tenant dispute lawyers in Lakewood, CO, here’s what sets our team at Flaxman Law Group apart:
- Direct attorney access from start to finish. When you contact Flaxman Law Group, you speak with Charles or Steven Flaxman. Your attorney will oversee your case, so you’re not passed around from one staff member to another.
- Local familiarity. We know Lakewood’s housing market, from the rental-heavy neighborhoods near Red Rocks Community College to single-family homes along Kipling Street. We’ve handled cases in Jefferson County courts and know the procedures that work here.
- We seek fair resolutions, and we have the track record to show for it. Whether you want to break your lease because your rental is not safe or you want to recover damages for your losses, we work hard to find a resolution that helps you recover from your ordeal. We have secured tens of thousands of dollars for tenants who were not treated fairly. We have even been featured in the news for our advocacy on behalf of landlords and tenants.
- Full-service client support. Beyond legal representation, we can connect you with housing resources, gather inspection reports, and help with documentation, often at no extra cost.
- We have personal injury experience, too. Sometimes, a landlord-tenant dispute becomes a personal injury claim, too. For example, an unsecured pool area in a condo building can lead to a fatality and a wrongful death claim. If your landlord refused to treat mold, you may have suffered medical consequences and mounting medical bills, too. Our team is experienced with personal injury claims, so we can help you seek compensation.
- We work to protect your relationship. If you’re a tenant, you may still want to work with the landlord. If you’re a landlord, you may want to keep a good tenant in place and to avoid being seen as a “bad” landlord. At Flaxman Law Group, we negotiate for you and we work to keep your relationship as cordial as possible, so you can avoid awkwardness and reputational damage.
Our goal is to take the stress off your shoulders and give you a clear, practical path forward. We explain your rights so you understand what is happening and we represent you until we secure a resolution.
Common Types of Landlord-Tenant Disputes We Handle
Disagreements can start small, but they can quickly escalate. We handle a wide range of disputes at all stages of disagreement, including:
- Nonpayment of rent. Landlords have the right to collect rent on time, and tenants have the right to be given proper notice if payment is late. Colorado law allows landlords to issue a demand for payment or possession, but skipping legal steps can delay an eviction or weaken your case.
- Breach of lease terms. Leases often contain rules about pets, smoking, subletting, or how the property can be used. Violations, whether committed by the landlord or the tenant, can lead to conflict. We review leases to determine whether terms have been broken and what remedies are available.
- Failure to maintain habitable conditions. Under Colorado’s Warranty of Habitability, landlords must keep properties safe and livable. This means working plumbing, adequate heat, secure doors and windows, and freedom from pests, asbestos, or mold. We help tenants take action when conditions are unsafe, and we defend landlords against unfounded claims.
- Security deposit disputes. When a tenant moves out, the landlord has a set amount of time to return the deposit or provide a detailed list of deductions. Disputes often arise over what qualifies as “normal wear and tear” versus damage. We help both sides present clear evidence to support their position.
- Wrongful eviction. A landlord cannot change locks, remove belongings, or shut off utilities without going through proper eviction procedures. Tenants in these situations often have strong legal claims. Likewise, we help landlords accused of wrongful eviction defend themselves against penalties.
- Property damage. From intentional vandalism to accidental destruction, disputes over repairs can get heated. We work to document damage, determine responsibility, and recover costs.
We have secured beneficial outcomes for many clients. In one case, we represented a tenant who was living in a rented home with mold. We were able to break her lease and secure compensation for her moving costs. In another case, a landlord did not repair an elevator, effectively trapping our client, who lived with a disability, in their apartment. We were able to secure significant compensation to help pay for our client’s distress and losses.
At Flaxman Law Group, we have helped hundreds of tenants recover withheld security deposits, terminate leases, or obtain new housing. We have also helped landlords protect their reputations and recover compensation for their losses.
Key Landlord-Tenant Laws in Colorado
If you rent or own property in Lakewood, these laws may affect your case:
- Notice requirements. Landlords must give written notice before raising rent, entering the property, or ending a tenancy.
- Eviction timelines. Depending on the issue, notice periods can range from 10 to 91 days.
- Anti-retaliation protections. Landlords cannot evict tenants for reporting safety issues or code violations.
- Security deposit deadlines. Landlords generally have 30 days to return deposits (or up to 60 if stated in the lease).
In addition, in 2024, Colorado passed HB 24-1098, a law which effectively prohibits eviction without cause and specifies that tenants can only be evicted for specific, justified reasons.
Our Process: How We Work With You
We aim to make the legal process as straightforward as possible:
- Initial consultation. We review your situation, lease, and any supporting documents to determine your options.
- Evidence gathering. This might include photos, inspection reports, repair requests, or text/email records.
- Negotiation. Many disputes can be resolved without going to court, which saves time and money.
- Litigation. If necessary, we represent you in Jefferson County Court or Colorado District Court.
At every step, we take care of any paperwork and details, and we keep you informed, so you know what to expect.
When To Contact a Landlord-Tenant Lawyer
You might not need a lawyer for every disagreement, but in these situations, calling early can make a big difference:
- You’ve been served with an eviction notice.
- Your landlord isn’t making critical repairs that affect your safety.
- You’re a landlord dealing with repeat nonpayment or major property damage.
- You’re either a landlord or tenant accused of serious property damage or a crime.
- Your security deposit was kept without explanation.
- You were locked out or had utilities shut off without notice.
Even if you’re unsure, getting advice now can prevent costly mistakes later. You can always call us at 970-999-0530 to get an honest evaluation of your situation.
Local Insight Matters
Lakewood’s rental market has its own rhythm and challenges. Disputes are more common in high-density rental areas like those along Sheridan Boulevard and Alameda Avenue, where larger complexes mean more tenants (and more potential for conflict). Older homes in neighborhoods like Green Mountain may present maintenance issues that lead to habitability disputes.
Because we’ve handled cases in this area, we know how local housing inspectors operate, which courts handle certain claims, and how to tailor arguments to Lakewood’s legal landscape. That local insight can be the difference between a quick resolution and a drawn-out battle.
Lease Violations, Evictions, and Security Deposit Issues
Lease agreements spell out the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. But in the real world, those agreements are often tested.
In Lakewood, rental disputes commonly arise over:
- Unpaid rent. If a tenant falls behind, Colorado law allows landlords to issue a demand for payment or possession, but they must follow specific notice and filing rules.
- Lease term violations. Whether it’s keeping a pet in a no-pet property, unauthorized subletting, or unapproved renovations, breaking a lease term can lead to penalties and even eviction.
- Security deposit disputes. State law generally requires landlords to return deposits within one month (or up to 60 days if the lease says so), along with an itemized list of any deductions. These deductions must be for damage and not for normal wear and tear, but conflicts often arise over what counts as “normal wear and tear.”
These disputes can affect where you live or your investment’s bottom line. Our team at Flaxman Law Group helps clients understand their legal options, gather evidence, and take action. We’ve worked on cases involving everything from withheld deposits in apartment complexes near Belmar to eviction filings for rental homes along Kipling Parkway.
Resolving Habitability and Repair Disputes in Lakewood
Colorado’s Warranty of Habitability gives tenants the right to live in a safe, sanitary, and functional space. This includes:
- Heat in the winter.
- Working plumbing and electricity.
- Secure locks, doors, and windows.
- Freedom from pests and mold.
If a landlord doesn’t address serious repair issues after receiving proper notice, tenants may have the right to withhold rent, pay for repairs and deduct the cost, or pursue legal action.
From older homes in Green Mountain where aging plumbing leads to water damage, to apartment buildings along Sheridan Boulevard with recurring heating failures, habitability disputes happen in every part of Lakewood.
We represent both sides in these cases. We help tenants document unsafe conditions and we guide landlords through compliance so they can avoid penalties and protect their properties. Because we’ve handled disputes in Jefferson County courts and worked with local code enforcement offices, we understand how to move these cases forward.
What To Do If You Are Facing an Eviction
An eviction notice can be frightening, but you still have rights and options under Colorado law. The first step is to determine whether the landlord has followed the legal process. Common mistakes, like skipping required paperwork, can delay or stop an eviction.
If you’re a tenant, you will want to:
- Read the notice carefully. It should state the reason for eviction and the deadline for compliance or moving out.
- Check the timeline. Depending on the violation, you may have as little as 10 days or as long as 91 days before the landlord can file in court.
- Seek legal advice early. The sooner we can review your case, the better your chances of negotiating or fighting the eviction.
If you’re a landlord and you need to evict a tenant who is not following the lease agreement:
- Follow the exact process. Colorado’s eviction laws are strict, and skipping a step can force you to start over.
- Document everything. Keep records of rent payments, lease violations, and any communication with the tenant.
- Consider negotiation. Sometimes a payment plan or move-out agreement can resolve the dispute faster and more affordably than litigation.
At Flaxman Law Group, we’ve helped landlords reclaim properties in high-turnover areas like West Colfax Avenue and defended tenants from wrongful evictions in smaller multifamily buildings near Lakewood’s light rail stops. We know the local court system and can help you act quickly to protect your rights.
Legal Options for Landlords Dealing With Problem Tenants
Owning rental property in Lakewood can be a solid long-term investment, but it’s not without risks. One of the biggest risks is a bad tenant. Even the best screening process can’t guarantee you’ll never run into trouble. A tenant might stop paying rent, break the lease, damage your property, or refuse to leave when the rental term ends. In the worst-case scenario, a tenant may engage in illegal activities on your property, which puts you at legal risk.
In every case, do your best to stay courteous and secure as much documentation as you can. Get photos of the unit before move-in day, so you can establish the condition of the unit after a tenant has moved out. Keep receipts and records of any repairs, and get contractors to take photos of their completed work. If you suspect illegal activity and police are called, be sure to get copies of the police report. Always communicate with a problem tenant in writing and keep copies of your correspondence. If your situation becomes a legal matter, you will have some protection.
If you’re a landlord facing a difficult tenant situation, legal guidance can make the difference between a drawn-out, costly battle and a quicker, cleaner resolution. A lawyer can also help you in situations where a tenant has extra protections. For example, active duty military service members are protected by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and in Colorado have added protections from eviction. Victims of domestic violence also have additional protections, as do people living with disabilities. In these and other cases, an attorney can help protect you while also ensuring you are not accused of discrimination or violating other laws.
At Flaxman Law Group, we represent landlords across Jefferson County in disputes that threaten their property, income, or peace of mind. From the first notice to the final resolution, we focus on protecting your rights while aiming for a practical solution.
Common issues we help landlords resolve include:
- Nonpayment of rent. We help by preparing and serving proper notices, meeting legal deadlines, and guiding you through Colorado’s eviction process.
- Lease violations. We can address unauthorized occupants, unapproved pets, or illegal activities on the property.
- Property damage claims. We have helped landlords by gathering evidence, documenting costs, and pursuing reimbursement for repairs.
- Security deposit disputes. We ensure you comply with Colorado’s return deadlines while defending against wrongful claims.
- Holding over after lease expiration. We can help you in taking legal action when tenants won’t leave voluntarily.
These situations can be stressful, especially if the tenant is someone you once had a good relationship with. We help remove the emotion from the process and replace it with a clear plan that protects your interests.
A rental property is part of your financial future. Every month of unpaid rent or unresolved damage cuts into your return on investment. Our role is to protect that asset so you can keep your rental income flowing and avoid long vacancies.
In addition to legal representation, we can connect you with trusted contractors, property managers, and other professionals who can help restore a damaged unit, improve tenant screening, or prevent future disputes.
Contact Flaxman Law Group Today
Get answers to your landlord-tenant questions. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and explore your options.
Why Lakewood Landlords Turn to Flaxman Law Group
We know you have options when it comes to hiring an attorney. What makes Flaxman Law Group different is the way we combine big-firm experience with the personal attention of a family-run practice.
We’re a father-son legal team with more than 60 years of combined experience. That means when you call us, you speak directly with your lawyer—someone who knows your case inside and out and is invested in your outcome. You even have your attorney’s cell phone number, so there are never any drops in communication.
How to Protect Yourself as a Tenant or Landlord
At Flaxman Law Group, we have worked with many landlords and tenants who have already found themselves in a disagreement. If there was advice we could give to help you get
- Do your research. If you are a landlord, work with a property management company or another service to vet tenants. If you are a tenant, be equally vigorous in researching landlords. In either case, remember that you are building a professional relationship, and it will run far more smoothly if the other party has a history of acting in good faith.
- Have a good lease agreement in place. A clear and detailed lease agreement that outlines the responsibilities and duties of each party is the best protection for both tenants and landlords because it reduces misunderstandings. It is a good practice to review the lease agreement together verbally before the move-in date, so each party is clear about what is expected. However, do keep in mind that the lease agreement does not override the law. That is, the landlord must keep the rental in habitable condition and must not discriminate against tenants and must follow all other laws, regardless of what the lease says.
- Schedule move-in and move-out walk-throughs. This helps both parties evaluate the condition of the apartment and discuss any concerns. If a walk-through shows something that is in poor condition, document this in writing, with both signatures.
- Document everything. Always keep all communication in writing and keep all copies of correspondence. Keep receipts for any work done on the apartment and take photos before and after move-in day and move-out day. If any major repairs are done on the apartment, get photos of that as well. If you are a landlord who notices major property damage, get estimates from more than one contractor, so you can establish how much repairs will cost. The more documentation you have as either a landlord or tenant, the better you can argue for your interests.
Even if you do everything right, disagreements can happen. If they do, it is best to contact landlord-tenant dispute lawyers in Lakewood, CO sooner rather than later. A qualified lawyer can try to de-escalate the situation before it gets more contentious and can work to find the best solution for you.
Serving Lakewood, Jefferson County, and Beyond
While many of our cases come from Lakewood, we regularly assist landlords throughout Jefferson County and surrounding communities, including Wheat Ridge, Arvada, Golden, and Littleton. Each area has its own rental market quirks, but landlord-tenant laws apply across the board.
We’re also a resource for out-of-state property owners. If you live elsewhere but own rental property in Colorado, dealing with a dispute from afar can be overwhelming. We can represent you locally, handle court appearances, and keep you updated so you can resolve the matter without traveling here for every step.
FAQs About Lakewood Landlord-Tenant Disputes
Q: What should I do if my rental is not safe?
A: Pests, mold, asbestos, poor security, and other issues are an immediate safety concern. If these are present in your rental, inform your landlord of the issue in writing and ask your landlord to address these concerns. Keep copies of any communication. If your landlord does not reply or address the issue, contact a landlord-tenant dispute attorney.
Q: My neighbors are engaging in illegal activity. Is my landlord responsible for fixing the issue?
A: It’s likely. Your landlord is expected to provide you with a reasonably safe and habitable environment. Allowing illegal activity that could make you unsafe is typically a violation of those laws.
Q: What should I do if my tenant is not paying rent on time?
A: If rent is late, start by reviewing your lease agreement and any notices you’ve already given. Colorado law typically requires landlords to provide a written notice, often called a “Notice to Pay or Quit,” informing the tenant they must pay rent within a certain period or face eviction proceedings.
Act promptly, but also keep communication open. Sometimes tenants are facing temporary hardship and may be willing to work out a payment plan. If not, legal action may be necessary to protect your interests.
Q: Can I evict a tenant without going to court?
A: No. In Colorado, landlords cannot forcibly remove tenants or their belongings without a court order. Attempting a “self-help” eviction—like changing locks or shutting off utilities—is illegal and can result in penalties.
The eviction process requires filing a lawsuit and obtaining a judgment from the court. Having an experienced landlord-tenant attorney ensures you follow the correct procedures and avoid costly missteps.
Q: How long does an eviction take in Lakewood?
A: Eviction timelines depend on the reason for eviction and the tenant’s response. Generally, once the landlord files the eviction case in court, the tenant has several days to respond. If the tenant contests, the case may proceed to a hearing.
Typical eviction cases in Jefferson County can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. However, delays are possible if procedural errors occur or the tenant raises legal defenses. Working with a knowledgeable attorney can help keep your case on track.
Q: What can I do if my tenant caused property damage beyond normal wear and tear?
A: If your tenant damages the property beyond ordinary use, you can seek compensation for repairs. Document everything thoroughly: take photos, keep repair estimates, and maintain detailed records.
Your security deposit can be used to cover some costs, but if damages exceed the deposit, you may need to pursue a separate claim. A landlord-tenant lawyer can guide you on the best approach to recover these losses.
Q: What rights do tenants have if the property needs repairs?
Tenants have the right to a habitable living space, which includes working plumbing, heating, and safe structural conditions. If landlords fail to make necessary repairs after being notified, tenants can sometimes withhold rent or seek legal remedies.
These issues can be tricky because landlords also have rights to reasonable access and dispute certain repair claims. An attorney helps clarify these rights and negotiate fair resolutions. An attorney can also make sure that any attempts to withhold rent are legal and won’t result in eviction.
Schedule a Consultation With a Lakewood Landlord-Tenant Lawyer
Dealing with a landlord-tenant dispute can feel like an uphill battle. Whether you’re facing a non-paying tenant, a lease violation, or questions about your rights, having the right legal partner can make all the difference.
At Flaxman Law Group, we understand that each dispute is personal and can impact your financial security and peace of mind. That’s why when you work with us, you get direct access to experienced attorneys who know Lakewood and Jefferson County inside and out.
Scheduling a consultation with us is simple, and there’s no obligation. During your initial meeting, we’ll:
- Review your situation and relevant documents.
- Explain your rights and options clearly, without legal jargon.
- Discuss possible outcomes and next steps.
- Answer any questions you have about the process.
If you’re facing a landlord-tenant dispute in Lakewood or Jefferson County, don’t wait until the problem escalates. Early action often leads to better results and less stress.
Reach out to Flaxman Law Group today at 970-999-0530 to schedule your consultation. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on protecting your property and your peace of mind.
CASE REVIEW
50+ Years of Combined Experience,
Personal Attention to Every Case
Landlord-Tenant Dispute Results
Successfully recovered significant compensation for a disabled client after building management failed to repair a broken elevator, leaving the client trapped in their home.
Secured a lease termination and $10,000 for a tenant to cover legal fees and moving expenses after their home was found to have a severe mold infestation.
Testimonials
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Lakewood Practice Areas
Landlord-Tenant Dispute Clients Often Ask Us
These Important Questions
A landlord can typically keep all or part of your security deposit to cover unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or other lease violations. However, they must provide an itemized list of deductions and return any remaining amount within a specific timeframe, as required by local laws.
With a proven track record and a client-focused approach, we strive to make the legal process as stress-free as possible. Trust our offices in Colorado and Florida to provide honest representation throughout your landlord-tenant dispute. Contact Flaxman Law Group today so we can assist you with your landlord-tenant issue.
Landlords must always provide notice and cannot evict without going through proper court process, unless the lease or local laws specify otherwise. For example, in cases of criminal activity or immediate danger to the property, the landlord may proceed with an expedited eviction. Always check your lease and local tenant laws for specific requirements.
If your landlord fails to address necessary repairs after you've notified them in writing, you may have options such as:
Withholding rent (where allowed by law).
Making the repair yourself and deducting the cost from your rent. Reporting the issue to local housing authorities.
Seeking legal remedies in court. Document all communication and the condition of the property to strengthen your case.
The length of the eviction process varies depending on local laws and the circumstances of the case. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Generally, the process involves:
- A formal notice period.
- Filing of an eviction lawsuit.
- A court hearing.
- Enforcement of the eviction by local authorities, if necessary.
- Tenants may appeal or request delays, which can extend the timeline.
Landlord-Tenant Practice Areas
Broad Experience in Landlord-Tenant Disputes
Skillfully navigated complex landlord-tenant conflicts, advocating for fair resolutions and protecting clients’ rights in rental and lease agreements.
Protecting Tenant Rights:
Helped hundreds of tenants recover withheld security deposits, terminate leases, transfer units, or obtain alternative housing in cases involving habitability issues.
Preventing Wrongful Evictions:
Represented tenants to successfully block unlawful eviction attempts, ensuring their housing rights were upheld.
Advocating for Landlords:
Assisted landlords in evicting problematic tenants and recovering compensation for property damages, lost income, and other related losses.