Why Englewood Has Some of the Strictest Rental Property Rules in the State

If you live in Englewood or are thinking about moving there, rental property rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Englewood has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of rental property rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Rental Registration

Englewood requires landlords to register rental properties and obtain a new certificate of occupancy each time a tenant changes. Chapter 319 also mandates registration for vacant and foreclosure properties, with annual fees and inspection requirements.

Key details: CO Trigger: Each tenant change. Vacant Property Registry: Chapter 319. Local Manager: Required for vacants. Inspection Items: Smoke and CO alarms. Registration: Annual renewal.

Renting without a current certificate of occupancy or failing to register a vacant property exposes owners to municipal court fines and orders barring occupancy until inspections are passed.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Englewood actively enforces its rental registration requirements.

Rent Control

Englewood Chapter 325 limits rent increases on covered units through rent control on substandard housing and a rent leveling ordinance. A local Rent Leveling Board reviews increases, hardship petitions, and tenant complaints under city law.

Key details: Code Chapter: Chapter 325. Rent Leveling Adopted: November 15, 1983. Rent Control Adopted: March 12, 1969. Oversight Body: Rent Leveling Board. Short-Term Rentals: Article IX (2023).

Excess rent collected must be refunded to tenants, and landlords face municipal court fines and possible denial of certificates of occupancy for noncompliance with rent leveling decisions.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Englewood actively enforces its rent control requirements.

The Bottom Line

Englewood is tougher than many cities when it comes to rental property rules. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Englewood, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

All of the above reflects Englewood's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.