Definitions Included In Denver's Residential Rental Property Licensing Ordinance

Residential rental property is defined as "any building(s), structure(s), or accessory dwelling unit that is rented or offered for rent as a residence." This includes apartments, single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, condominiums, vacation rentals, and other similar dwellings. The "receiving or offering money, services, or other remunerations in exchange for occupation of a residential rental property" is referred to as "rent".

All residential rental properties must be inspected regularly to ensure that they are safe and well-maintained. Renewals on the licenses and inspections are only required every 4 years. However, properties that have been cited for code violations may be subject to more frequent inspections. The inspection process includes a 26-point, city-provided checklist. A "home inspector" must be certified by "the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc., the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, Inc., or the Master Inspector Certification Board, Inc." and "certified as a Combination Building Inspector by the International Code Council".

Some definitions are provided in Article II of Chapter 27 of the Code of Ordinances. However, there are some additional terms listed in Section 27-192 that you will need to know. The Department of Excise and Licenses is referred to as simply "department". Likewise, "director refers to the Director of Excise and Licenses. The definition of "dwelling unit" is outlined in the Denver Zoning Code.

If you have any questions about how to obtain a rental property license or what is required of you as a property owner, please contact us at 303-569-5057.