In Colorado, a landlord generally cannot evict a tenant or refuse to renew a lease for no reason. Under the “Just Cause” Eviction Law (HB24-1098), which took effect in 2024, landlords must have a specific, legal reason to end a tenancy.
“Just Cause” Requirements
Landlords must now provide a valid reason in a written notice, categorized as:
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For-Cause Evictions: Nonpayment of rent, material lease violations, substantial (criminal) violations, or creating a nuisance.
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No-Fault Evictions: Reasons not caused by the tenant, such as the owner moving in, plans to demolish or substantially remodel the unit, or the sale of the property.
Notice Periods
The amount of notice required depends on the reason for the eviction:
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90 Days’ Notice: Required for most “no-fault” lease terminations (e.g., selling the home or owner move-in).
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10 Days’ Notice: Required for “for-cause” reasons like unpaid rent or lease violations, giving the tenant a chance to fix the issue.
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3 Days’ Notice: Reserved for substantial violations, such as violent or drug-related criminal activity.
When a Landlord CAN Evict Without a Reason
A landlord can only terminate a tenancy without a “just cause” if the property falls under specific exemptions:
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Short-Term Occupancy: Tenants who have lived in the unit for less than 12 months.
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Owner-Occupied Small Properties: A property with fewer than four units where the landlord lives on-site.
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Employer-Provided Housing: Units provided as a condition of employment.
The information for this answer was found on our Colorado Eviction Process answers.