Fox 31 Turns to R&H for Advice on Renters’ Rights

When a Denver father discovered the apartment he was set to move into was in terrible condition, he asked for his money back. The security deposit and pre-paid rent totalled some $3,000. The man was let out of his lease, but the landlord left him waiting on the refund. And that put him in a financial bind. 

The Problem Solvers asked R&H Attorney Christopher “Kit” Davlin, who has helped other renters, how long landlords can wait to return a deposit.

Kit explained to Fox 31 that the law gives them 30 days to issue a refund, but he added, “The rest of the rent is covered under contract law, and they should return it immediately.”

He said that when it comes to a refund of paid rent, every landlord is held accountable by the habitability law that guarantees renters a safe, clean place to live.

“There’s no cause for them to keep [the rent], and there’s no right for them to keep it,” Kit said. “If they can’t fulfill their side of the contract, i.e. an apartment to you that is ready to rent, then they’ve breached the contract and you should get your money back.”

Colorado landlords must follow the state’s strict laws. Any sort of deviation, whether it’s intentional or not, opens up the risk of being sued by a tenant or former tenant. Our Eviction & Landlord-Tenant Lawyers can help. Call 303-688-0944 to begin your free initial case assessment.