Colorado House Bill 25-1090

On April 21, 2025, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed into law House Bill 25-1090, a consumer protection measure aimed at preventing deceptive pricing practices by landlords and property managers. The law introduces several key provisions to ensure transparency and fairness in rental agreements and advertising.

HB 25-1090 is designed to protect tenants from hidden fees and misleading pricing tactics that can lead to unexpected costs. By mandating full price disclosure and prohibiting misrepresentation, the law seeks to create a more equitable rental market in Colorado.

This legislation is particularly relevant for landlords and property managers who utilize submetering for utilities such as water, as it emphasizes the importance of clear communication regarding all charges associated with rental properties.

For property owners and managers, compliance with HB 25-1090 is essential to avoid legal repercussions and maintain positive relationships with tenants. The law not only benefits renters by promoting transparency but also helps landlords build trust and credibility in the rental market.

Key Provisions of HB 25-1090

Full Price Disclosure Required

Under this law, any offering, display, or advertisement of pricing must clearly and conspicuously include the maximum total price a person may pay (excluding government or shipping charges) Colorado General Assembly

No Misrepresentation or Hidden Fees

The law prohibits misrepresenting the nature or purpose of any pricing, and requires clear disclosure of any fee or charge not included in the stated total price Colorado General Assembly

Limits on Landlord Fees

Landlords cannot require tenants to pay prohibited fees or charges, whether included in written rental agreements or not Colorado General Assembly

Enforcement & Penalties

Affected individuals may send a written demand to halt unlawful charges or seek reimbursement. If the violator doesn’t comply within 14 days, they’re liable for actual damages plus interest—or up to three times the actual damages (or a flat $100–$1,000 per violation)

Effective Date

Though signed into law on April 21, 2025, the law doesn’t take effect until January 1, 2026

Reducing Water Usage

Submetering tenants water usage is the best way to help reduce water usage at a property and lower utilty costs for both the tenant/owner and landlord. Submetering provides tenants with accurate information on how much water they use. By charging tenants for their actual water usage, residents are more likely to conserve water.

Sewer Service Billed Based on Water Usage

In many counties throughout Colorado and the country, sewer service is billed based on water usage. By submetering residents water usage, sewer service can also be allocated based on water usage and fairly charged to tenants. In jurisdictions where the costs of sewer service exceed those of water service, tenants can achieve additional savings on their sewer fee allocation by lowering water usage.