Accepted Answer

There is nothing stopping you from speaking directly to the landlord to try to work out a reduction in rent due to the lack of heat. Six weeks is a long time to go without heat. You may notify the landlord in writing that if the heat is not fixed in xxxx days, then you will hire a company to do the work. You then must notify the landlord of the company that you have chosen. Make sure that it is a licensed company. Actually, you should try to get 3 estimates and present the landlord with the estimates. Let the landlord choose the company. The landlord will be responsible for the bill.

 

Although courts are available to decide and enforce people's rights, parties can also tailor their own solutions. The parties not only save time and expense, but stay in control of their agreements. When disagreements arise, every effort should be made to clarify rules, regulations or prior communications, and to negotiate a settlement. Confirm any agreements in writing. If direct negotiation is not successful, mediation is often the next best alternative. Mediation is an assisted negotiation process in which a neutral mediator helps the parties communicate and listen to each other's point of view, develop a list of issues to be resolved, and negotiate a settlement that meets both parties' needs. Agreements reached in mediation are drawn up by the mediator and signed by the parties.

Colorado law does not define "rent," and many parks include utility charges as part of rent payment: check the rental agreement, rules and regulations, and any amendments. In parks where this arrangement applies, withholding utility charges from the space rental amount may be treated as "non-payment of rent."

 

Again, Colorado is only one of two states that don't have state legislation that specifically governs landlord tenant laws.

 

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Legal Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney/client relationship has been created.

Expert:	xavierjd
Pos. Feedback:	97.4 %
Accepts:
Answered:	10/28/2009

Attorney

17 years experience in all aspects of criminal law, landlord tenant, family law and small claims