Beyond the First License: Navigating Denver’s Renewal Process

Denver Rental Licensing was introduced to the multifamily industry in January 2023 with the
intent to ensure tenant safety, uphold living standards, and maintain property conditions. Inspections of properties across Denver are now required to gain the necessary license making this process a significant aspect of property management. As we adapt to these changes, it has become clear that Denver's multifamily industry has stepped up to meet the challenges and commitments to creating safe and sustainable living environments.

Once your initial rental inspection and licensing have been completed, the job is not done. There are plenty of nuances to think about and steps to take to ensure you remain in compliance. So, whether you're a current owner/ property manager planning for renewal or a prospective buyer, here's a handy guide to navigate your next steps smoothly.

KEY STEPS:

• Keep Track of Your Credentials:
  Ensure you have documented your email and login details for the City of Denver portal, initially used for registering your Denver Rental License.
• Update Entity Information: 
  it's crucial to update your entity information so that notifications from the City reach the proper people.
• Monitor License Expiration: 
  Be aware of your property’s license expiration date so you can budget appropriately for necessary inspections.
• Secure a Copy of Identification:
  Retain a copy of the ID used during the Rental License application. This is essential for submitting an Affidavit of Surrender if the property is sold.
• Seller Responsibilities: 
  If purchasing a property, ensure the seller submits an Affidavit of Surrender, allowing the new owner to apply for a fresh license. It’s important to note that licenses do not transfer when a property changes ownership, so the new owner will need a full inspection to be compliant.
• Accessing the City Portal: 
  Access your portal with the City of Denver at https://aca-prod.accela.com/ DENVER. If you do not have access to your portal, you will need to e-mail the licensing department at licenses@denvergov.org

Renewal dates are tied to the Rental License approval date, not the submission date. For instance, an application was submitted on September 22, 2022 but it took a while for the city to process all the applications, so you would think it has an expiration date of October 21, 2026. This is not the case. Though renewal notifications will be emailed multiple times beginning 90 days before expiration date, you can always verify your expiration date on the City of Denver’s Accelia Portal and enter your property address.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR BUYERS/SELLERS:

Before filing for a new Rental License, ensure the previous owner has completed the surrender process. The surrender process requires an Affidavit of Surrender to be filled out and sent to the city by the seller. This is crucial because renewal information will only be sent to the entity/owner that last filed for the property’s license. You can download the affidavit from the City of Denver’s website.

Additionally, the city mandates that a copy of a valid ID of the listed owner accompanies the affidavit, so be sure you secure a copy of identification.

As Denver’s rental licensing program moves into its renewal phase, staying proactive will be key. By tracking credentials, updating ownership details, and preparing for inspections well ahead of time, property managers and owners can avoid costly delays and ensure compliance. While the first round of licensing was a learning curve for many, the renewal process offers a chance to build stronger systems and habits that support both operations and resident well-being.

Ultimately, Denver’s licensing requirements aren’t just a regulatory hurdle — they’re part of the city’s broader commitment to safe, sustainable housing. By approaching renewals with the same focus and attention given to the initial roll out, multifamily leaders can continue
demonstrating their dedication to quality living environments and help set a standard for the industry moving forward.