Denver Construction Defect Ordinance Gets Initial Approval

A measure aimed at spurring condo construction in Denver received initial approval Tuesday. Five council members on the city's business development committee voted in favor of the ordinance.

The measure would make it harder for homeowners' associations to sue condo builders. Supporters like council member Albus Brooks say that lowering the threat of litigation will lead to more condo development.

"To obtain a single family home you're looking at 5 to $600,000. So I think this directly answers the questions of affordable and attainable housing," Brooks said.

The committee holds one more vote on the ordinance next week. It would need council approval. Opponents say the ordinance rolls back consumer protections and add developers are building apartments instead of condos because of the hot rental market.