Boulder Long-term Rental License & SmartRegs Inspections
City of Boulder Certified Inspector for Rental Licensing and Energy Efficiency Compliance
The City of Boulder requires all property owners to obtain a rental license before advertising or renting their property for long-term rentals (30 days or more). This licensing process involves two distinct but equally important inspections: the Rental License Inspection for safety and property maintenance standards, and the SmartRegs Inspection for energy efficiency and water conservation standards.
As a City of Boulder certified inspector, Stauss Inspections is licensed to perform both required inspections, helping landlords and property owners achieve full compliance efficiently and cost-effectively. We guide you through the entire process and ensure your property meets all City requirements for licensing.
Two Required Inspections for Boulder Rental Licensing
Rental License
Inspection
This inspection certifies compliance with the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) and Boulder’s safety standards. It covers all aspects of health, safety, and habitability for your rental property.
What’s Inspected:
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Electrical systems and panels
- Plumbing and water systems
- HVAC and heating equipment
- Structural components
- Fire safety and egress
- Occupancy signage requirements
- Floodplain signage (if applicable)
SmartRegs
Inspection
Boulder’s SmartRegs ordinance requires rental properties to meet minimum energy efficiency standards. This inspection evaluates your property’s energy performance and identifies the path to compliance.
Compliance Required:
- 100 energy efficiency points
- 2 water conservation points
- Based on prescriptive pathway (most common)
- OR HERS rating of 120 or less
- One-time requirement per property
Complete Rental License Inspection Checklist
Smoke alarms in each sleeping room
- Smoke alarms outside each sleeping area
- Smoke alarms on every level including basement
- Carbon monoxide alarms per Colorado state law
- Proper power source and backup batteries
- Listed and labeled units
Panelboard cover removal and inspection
- Verification of safe wiring, grounding, and breakers
- Circuit breaker accessibility for each occupant
- Minimum two receptacles per habitable room
- GFCI protection in bathrooms, kitchens, and wet areas
- Grounded receptacles in laundry areas
- Proper electrical service and capacity
Hot and cold water supply to all fixtures
- Water heater installation and safety
- TPR valve and proper discharge piping
- Drain, waste, and vent systems
- Fixtures and faucets operation
- No active leaks or water damage
Heating system operational and safe
- Proper heating capacity for all rooms
- Combustion air and venting systems
- Gas line installation and shut-offs
- Bathroom and kitchen ventilation
- Clothes dryer venting to exterior
- Equipment clearances and access
Structural members properly functioning
- Stairways, handrails, and guardrails
- Egress windows in sleeping rooms
- Exterior doors and locks
- Foundation, walls, and roof condition
- Windows and weather protection
Maximum occupancy sign posted (8.5″ x 11″ minimum)
- Floodplain warning sign (if in 100-year floodplain)
- Visible address numbers from street
- Contact information for property owner/agent
Exterior maintained and free from hazards
- Roof, gutters, and drainage systems
- Interior walls, floors, and ceilings
- Sanitary facilities and cleanliness
- Pest-free conditions
SmartRegs Energy Efficiency Requirements
Boulder’s SmartRegs program is one of the nation’s most innovative energy efficiency initiatives for rental housing. The goal is to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions while improving the comfort and affordability of rental properties.
Common Upgrades to Reach Compliance
Most properties don’t pass SmartRegs initially, but compliance is achievable. The most common and cost-effective upgrades include:
- Replacing all light bulbs with LED bulbs (easy and affordable)
- Installing low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators
- Upgrading to high-efficiency toilets
- Adding attic insulation
- Sealing air leaks and improving weatherization
- Upgrading old appliances to ENERGY STAR models
Good News: SmartRegs compliance is only required once! Once your property passes, it remains compliant even when the rental license is renewed every four years.
Important Exemptions
Rental License Exemptions
You may be exempt from rental licensing if the property is owner/relative occupied. However, this does NOT apply to rental situations.
SmartRegs Exemptions
- Your property may be automatically exempt from SmartRegs if:
- Building permit issued after July 1, 2001
- Manufactured home
- Attached accessory dwelling unit (ADU)
- Already has a HERS rating of 120 or less
A “Technically Impractical” exemption may be available for properties that cannot feasibly meet all requirements due to cost or construction limitations.
How SmartRegs Points Work
Windows
Up to 13 points for energy-efficient windows
Insulation
Points for wall, attic, and basement insulation
HVAC Systems
High-efficiency heating and cooling equipment
Water Heater
Efficient models and proper installation
Lighting
LED and energy-efficient bulbs throughout
Appliances
Energy star refrigerators and dishwashers
Air Sealing
Blower door test results and improvements
Water Conservation
Low-flow fixtures and efficient toilets
Schedule Your Boulder Rental License & SmartRegs Inspection
Get both required inspections from a City of Boulder certified inspector. We’ll guide you through the entire compliance process.
- Licensed by the City of Boulder to perform Rental License and SmartRegs Inspections
- Serving Boulder and surrounding Colorado communities
Why Choose Stauss Inspections
The Inspection Process
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The City of Boulder strictly enforces rental licensing requirements. Properties that are rented without a valid license face significant penalties:
- Initial warning and notice of violation
- Fines and enforcement fees
- Continued non-compliance can result in court summons with a $250 bond per violation
- Properties cannot be legally advertised or rented without a license
