Avoid Surprises—Know What You’re Paying For

Ever checked your rent statement and thought, “What is this charge?”
You’re not alone. Many Colorado tenants face surprise fees—some are legal, some are not.

Let’s break down common rental fees, your rights as a tenant, and how to protect yourself from unexpected costs.

🔍 Common Fees You Might See (And What to Do About Them)

🔁 Transfer Fees
If you switch units in the same building, your landlord may charge a transfer fee. It’s legal—but only if it’s spelled out in your lease.

💧 Utility Fees
Water, gas, trash… if these aren’t included in your rent, you could see them billed separately.
Make sure your lease is crystal clear about which utilities you pay and whether the fees are being passed through fairly.

🌿 Landscaping or Yard Maintenance Fees
Some leases require you to maintain front yards or shared outdoor spaces.
⚠️ Be cautious—if it’s not defined clearly, ask.
You might be responsible for trimming bushes, but not for touching rooftops or power lines.
Dead lawn? Landlords may even charge for resodding—so keep the yard alive, or clarify expectations early.

🧽 Apartment Cleaning Fees
A move-out cleaning fee is common, but you can contest it if:

• 🔹You cleaned the apartment yourself
• 🔹You hired someone and have a receipt
• 🔹Always communicate what you’ve done before moving out.

🔐 Lock Change Fees
Some landlords charge for lock replacements. It should only reflect the cost of the service, not an inflated fee.

⚖️ When It’s Not Just a Fee—It’s Illegal

Colorado law says landlords cannot retaliate against you.
That means they can’t:

• 🔹Add new or surprise fees to punish you
• 🔹Raise your rent or refuse to renew your lease without cause
  

Here’s what’s legally capped in Colorado:

• 🔹🐾 Pet deposits: Max $300 (refundable)
• 🔹🐶 Pet rent or fees: Max $35 or 1.5% of your rent
• 🔹💸 Late fees: Max $50 or 5% of overdue rent—whichever is greater
• 🔹⏳ Late fee grace period: At least 7 days

🧰 What You’re Responsible For—and What Landlords Must Do

Your Responsibilities as a Tenant:

• 🔹Report issues quickly: broken locks, leaks, pest problems, etc.
• 🔹If you don’t report damage and it gets worse, you might be liable.

Your Landlord’s Responsibilities:

• 🔹 Keep the unit safe and livable
• 🔹Complete repairs promptly
• 🔹Be transparent about fees and any lease changes
• 🔹They can’t alter your lease/agreement without your signature.

📝 What to Do If You Suspect a Violation

If a fee seems shady, or your landlord tries to change the rules mid-lease, take these steps:

1. Check your lease – Is the fee listed?
2. Ask for an explanation – Get everything in writing.
3. File a complaint – Report to StopFraudColorado.gov.
4. Need help paying rent or understanding your rights? Visit:

🔹211Colorado.org

🔹ColoradoHousingConnects.org

🏡 Integrity Realty Management = No Hidden Fees

We believe in being up front with everything.
✔ No surprise charges
✔ No confusing legal language
✔ Just clear, honest leasing you can trust

📞 Have questions? Let’s talk. We’re happy to walk you through your lease, step by step.
👉 Check our listings here

Final Thoughts: Rent With Confidence

You shouldn’t have to guess what you’re paying for.
✔ Read your lease carefully
✔ Keep documentation of everything
✔ Speak up early if something feels off

When you know your rights, you can rent with peace of mind.