Recently, one of the largest apartment companies in Colorado came out on top in a legal battle with Airbnb over illegal short-term rentals. The company, Aimco, sued Airbnb after residents were upset with short-term renters at a number of the company’s properties.
According to the Denver Business Journal, one of Aimco’s vice presidents stated, “Our residents do not want to live in a de-facto hotel for spring-break partiers, vacationers and other unvetted strangers.” Fortunately, a court agreed with the tenants.
The recent article reported that the residents complained that the short-term renters were responsible for the following:
- Noise violations and late-night disturbances
- Causing damage to the apartments
- Presenting a danger to the residents
Not only are Airbnb hosts subject to the laws in their city, but they must comply with any rental agreement that prohibits short-term rentals. While Colorado does not currently have any specific laws outlawing short-term rentals, property owners can create lease agreements that prohibit short-term rentals at their properties.
Landloards and apartment companies can create lease agreements that include provisions pertaining to sub-leasing, Airbnb rentals and other short-term rental arrangements. If a tenant is in violation of an apartment lease or city law concerning short-term rentals, a property owner might have the right to take legal action.
Colorado is a primary destination for spring-break vacationers and other travelers from around the world. If you believe Airbnb is responsible for unlawful short-term rentals at one of your properties or if you have other questions about a real estate dispute, contact an experienced Colorado real estate attorney to discuss your options.