The Walk-Through Requirement: Navigating Colorado’s New 2026 Laws

The Quick Take

As of January 1, 2026, Colorado law has codified what many reputable landlords were already doing. While landlords aren't required to proactively offer a move-out walkthrough, they are now legally obligated to provide one if a tenant requests it.

What’s Changed? (The Law vs. Reality)

• Pre-2026: Walkthroughs were purely optional or considered a "best practice."
• The New Mandate: If a tenant requests an inspection, the landlord must arrange it at a mutually convenient time.
• The Format: The inspection can be in-person or virtual (via video call), but it must occur before the lease is officially terminated or surrendered.

Our Professional Stance: Why We Insist on an Empty Home

While the law now allows for these joint walkthroughs, our professional policy remains firm: A true assessment is only possible once the home is 100% vacant. Here is why waiting until move-out is the most accurate path for everyone:

1. Hidden Damage: You simply cannot see stained carpets under rugs or drywall holes behind wall-mounted TVs and heavy couches.
2. Cleanliness Standards: It’s impossible to judge "broom clean" status or the condition of baseboards until the furniture is gone.
3. The "Two-Inspection" Problem: Conducting an inspection while a tenant is still packed up usually forces a second inspection anyway once the keys are handed over, doubling the administrative work for no real gain.

How We Handle Requests

If you would like to schedule a joint walkthrough under the new law, we ask for the following:

• Request Timing: Please notify us at least 14 days before your move-out date.
• Ideal Window: We prefer to schedule the walkthrough for the final day of your residency, once your moving truck is loaded.
• Final Documentation: Regardless of the walkthrough, we will still conduct a high-resolution digital photo and video inspection of the empty home to ensure the security deposit return is handled fairly and accurately.

Final Verdict

Overall, this new law doesn't change much for high-quality properties. Most reputable landlords don't "make up" charges; they rely on ample evidence. This law simply ensures the tenant has a seat at the table during that final look.