Colorado Clarified Housing Rights for Abuse Survivors

Tenants in Colorado who have experienced domestic violence gain specific lease and safety protections under state law.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Apartments

Gouache-painted illustration of a brass key and deadbolt lock on a wooden surface, representing secure housing rights for survivors.
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser has issued a reminder to landlords regarding housing protections for domestic violence survivors under state law HB25-1168. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Colorado attorney general has reminded landlords of existing housing protections for survivors of domestic violence under law HB25-1168. These rules ensure that victims have legal pathways to manage their housing security during and after difficult life events.

Why it matters

The reminder follows reports of landlords failing to comply with state requirements, which can leave survivors without the flexibility they need to relocate or maintain housing stability. Adhering to these laws prevents potential financial hardship for tenants.

Colorado law HB25-1168 applies to all residential tenants across the state who require safety-based housing accommodations. The specific impact on individual household budgets depends on the use of provided repayment plans or lease termination rights.

The players

Phil Weiser

The Colorado Attorney General who provides legal guidance and enforces state consumer and housing protection laws.

The details

Under HB25-1168, tenants may access protections by providing documentation such as a police report, a protection order, a self-attestation affidavit, or a letter from a qualified third party. Landlords are legally required to allow survivors to change locks, end a lease early, or negotiate a repayment plan if domestic violence causes a delay in rent payments. Tenants who face resistance when exercising these rights can report concerns directly to the Colorado attorney general's office.

Timeline

  1. October 6, 2026: Attorney General reminded landlords of legal responsibilities.

Money Landscape

This guidance sits within the broader scope of Colorado housing law, which increasingly prioritizes tenant stability in the face of personal crisis. It marks a push for stricter landlord adherence to protections previously established by state lawmakers.

If you are a survivor needing to change locks or end a lease early, keep your documentation prepared to present to your property manager. Consult a qualified legal professional if your landlord fails to honor these state-mandated protections.

The takeaway

Understanding your rights under HB25-1168 is a critical step for maintaining housing stability. If you believe your rights are being disregarded, contact the office of the Colorado attorney general to report the non-compliance.

Further reading

For additional guidance on tenant rights, visit the Apartments section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Kkco11news.

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Should landlords be required to provide housing accommodations for domestic violence survivors in your area?