Can a Colorado landlord charge a utility bill-back (RUBS)?
For Colorado residential leases signed, renewed or amended on or after January 1, 2026 (HB25-1090, C.R.S. 6-1-737).
Last reviewed November 1, 2026 against Colorado HB25-1090 (C.R.S. 6-1-737) and the sources below · How we check facts
Only within limits
Allowed only within the limits below.
What the law says
Only the actual utility cost, plus at most a 2% markup or $10 a month (one or the other, and only if the lease allows it). Common-area utilities must be excluded and the allocation method disclosed. Actual utility usage can be shown outside the Total Price.
How to show it
If tenants can avoid it, disclose it separately: what it pays for, who receives the money and whether it is refundable. Example wording:
Water, sewer and trash are billed separately based on a disclosed allocation formula (RUBS); amounts vary monthly. Common-area utilities are not included.
For renters
If a required fee was left out of the advertised Total Price, ask the landlord about it in writing. Colorado renter guide.
Check every fee at once and get the price to advertise: Total Price calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Colorado landlord charge a utility bill-back (RUBS)?
Only within limits. Only the actual utility cost, plus at most a 2% markup or $10 a month (one or the other, and only if the lease allows it). Common-area utilities must be excluded and the allocation method disclosed. Actual utility usage can be shown outside the Total Price.
Does a utility bill-back (RUBS) have to be in the Colorado Total Price?
Not if tenants can avoid it. Optional charges are disclosed separately, with what they pay for, who receives the money and whether they are refundable.
Related
Not legal advice. Confirm your lease with an Illinois attorney.