Asked by user in Colorado. Answered by Enjuris Editors.
I’m sorry you’re going through a difficult time.
A landlord cannot legally evict you (deny access to the property, change the locks, or remove your possessions) without a court order. As you know, the CDC has halted residential evictions for nonpayment of rent through March 31, 2021. This rent moratorium may be extended by the federal government or local government at some point.
In the meantime, it sounds like your utilities have been turned off. In most cases, you can work out a payment plan with the utility company that will result in your utilities being turned back on. If this is unsuccessful, Colorado has some resources that may help. The Colorado Department of Human Services provides payment assistance to low-income customers through the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP). For more information, call 1-866-432-8435 or visit their website. Energy Outreach Colorado provides payment assistance beyond that offered by LEAP. You can learn more here.
Unfortunately, a tenant is almost never permitted to cut down or use trees on the property without the landlord’s permission. Nevertheless, you might consider reaching out to Colorado Legal Services, which provides free legal help to qualifying individuals around the state, to see if you have any other options.