Denver’s rental market is shaped by constant migration, expanding job sectors, and a wide range of housing ownership styles. Energy, healthcare, construction, and tech continue to bring new residents into the metro area every year. That steady movement plays an important role in how rental applications are evaluated—especially for renters with criminal records. If you’re searching for Denver apartments that accept felons, the good news is that Denver offers more flexibility than many renters expect when applications are targeted correctly.
A felony on your record does not automatically disqualify you from renting in Denver. What matters most is time, context, and current stability.
How Felony Records Are Viewed in the Denver Area
Most Denver landlords run criminal background checks, but how those records are interpreted varies significantly depending on ownership. Large, corporate-managed apartment communities often rely on strict screening policies with little room for explanation.
However, Denver also has a strong supply of:
- Individually owned condos
- Small multifamily buildings
- Older apartment communities with local management
These landlords are more likely to consider:
- How long ago the conviction occurred
- Whether the offense was non-violent
- Employment consistency and income verification
- Rental history since the conviction
In many cases, landlords care less about the conviction itself and more about whether the applicant poses a current risk.
Where Approval Odds Are Often Higher
Renters with felony records typically have more success when applying to:
- Low-rise apartment buildings
- Duplexes and triplexes
- Owner-managed properties
- Submarkets outside the downtown core
New luxury developments and national apartment brands tend to be the least flexible due to centralized screening systems.
Denver-Area Housing & Real Estate Professionals
Apartment locating services are only offered in Texas, but the following Denver-based professionals can provide valuable insight into ownership structures, landlord expectations, and market behavior.
The Schlichter Team — Compass
Phone: (720) 502-0505
The Schlichter Team is an award-winning group that became the #1 producing team in the #1 producing office in Denver before joining Compass. Known for strong negotiation skills and deep local knowledge, they provide insight into how Denver property owners evaluate risk and long-term tenancy.
Tracy Panariello — HomeSmart Lakewood
Phone: (983) 203-7484
Tracy Panariello is known for her people-first approach and dedication to client confidence. Her focus on education, trust, and thoughtful decision-making helps renters and buyers better understand how to position themselves in a competitive market.
Smart City Apartment Locating — Denver
Phone: (720) 504-0873
Smart City Apartment Locating offers a customizable apartment search experience at no cost to clients. Their familiarity with a wide range of Denver apartment communities provides perspective on which properties tend to be more flexible with screening standards.
Housing Options While Rebuilding Eligibility
If traditional approvals take time, these alternatives can help maintain housing stability:
Airbnb
Monthly stays are often used as short-term housing and typically do not involve felony screening.
Furnished Finder
Mid-term furnished rentals that operate outside standard annual lease requirements.
Facebook Marketplace Rooms for Rent
Room rentals through private owners often involve fewer automated checks.
Private Landlords (Off-Market Rentals)
Independently advertised rentals are frequently reviewed case by case.
The Guarantors
Some renters reduce landlord risk through guarantor services, depending on eligibility.
Second Chance Locators
Provides education and housing guidance for renters facing screening challenges, including felony records, without offering placement services.
What Improves Approval Chances in Denver
Denver landlords often respond positively to applicants who provide:
- Verifiable income and steady employment
- Proof of stability since the conviction
- Recent rental or professional references
- Clear, factual explanation letters
- Willingness to negotiate deposits or lease terms
Consistency and preparation usually matter more than a perfect past.
Final Thoughts on Denver Apartments That Accept Felons
Finding Denver apartments that accept felons is about strategy, not volume. Denver’s mix of private ownership, steady demand, and growing housing stock creates real opportunities for renters who apply thoughtfully and present their current stability clearly.
With the right targeting and documentation, stable housing in Denver remains achievable—even with a felony on your record.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, approvals depend on the offense type, time passed, and your current stability.
Yes, most landlords conduct criminal background checks during the application process.
No, some landlords review felony records individually rather than issuing automatic denials.
Yes, older felony convictions are generally viewed more favorably than recent ones.
Yes, non-violent offenses are often easier for landlords to consider.
Disclosure timing matters, and addressing it when asked is usually more effective.
Yes, private landlords often have more discretion than large apartment communities.
Yes, stable income and consistent employment significantly help approval odds.
Felony records can remain visible for many years depending on reporting sources.
Timelines vary, but preparation and realistic housing options usually shorten the search.
