Evicting someone in Colorado typically involves direct court-related fees ranging from approximately $120 to $170, though the total cost can vary significantly due to factors like lost rent and potential additional expenses.
Understanding the various components of eviction costs is crucial for landlords. These expenses generally fall into two main categories: direct legal/filing fees and variable costs, such as lost rental income and property-related expenses.
Direct Eviction Process Fees
The initial costs associated with filing an eviction lawsuit in Colorado are relatively fixed and include fees for filing the case and serving legal documents to the tenant.
| Cost Category | Typical Costs |
|---|---|
| Filing Fees | $85 - $135 |
| Service of Process Fees | ~$35 |
| Court Costs | Included in Filing Fees |
- Filing Fees: This is the primary cost to initiate an unlawful detainer (eviction) lawsuit in Colorado courts. The exact amount can vary slightly depending on the specific court and the type of filing. These fees generally range from $85 to $135.
- Service of Process Fees: After filing, the tenant must be legally notified of the eviction lawsuit. This involves serving them with a summons and complaint. While some landlords may opt to use a sheriff's deputy, most utilize a private process server, which typically costs around $35.
- Court Costs: Any additional court costs are generally included within the initial filing fees, meaning you won't typically encounter separate charges for basic court administrative expenses.
Variable and Additional Expenses
Beyond the direct legal fees, landlords often incur other significant costs that can vary widely depending on the circumstances of the eviction.
Loss of Rent
This is often the most substantial financial impact during an eviction. From the moment a tenant stops paying rent until a new tenant occupies the property, the landlord is losing income.
- Unpaid Rent: Any rent not paid by the tenant before and during the eviction process.
- Vacancy Period: The time the unit remains empty after the tenant vacates, while it is being cleaned, repaired, and re-marketed to new tenants.
Property-Related Expenses
Once the tenant has moved out (or been removed by the sheriff), landlords often face costs to get the property ready for a new renter. These can include:
- Cleaning: Thorough cleaning of the unit, especially if it was left in poor condition.
- Repairs: Costs associated with repairing any damage beyond normal wear and tear. This can range from minor touch-ups to significant structural repairs.
- Trash Removal: If the tenant leaves behind belongings or trash, there will be costs for disposal.
- Locksmith Fees: Changing the locks after an eviction is a crucial security measure, incurring an additional cost.
While the direct legal fees provide a baseline, the overall financial burden of an eviction in Colorado can extend much further due to lost income and necessary property rehabilitation.
