Tenant Rights in Connecticut
Do you know your rights?
In Connecticut, tenants have several rights under state landlord-tenant laws that protect them from unlawful evictions, discrimination, and unsafe living conditions. Here are some key tenant rights:
Right to a Habitable Home
- Landlords must maintain safe and livable conditions, including heat, water, and necessary repairs.
- Tenants can withhold rent or repair and deduct costs if the landlord refuses to fix serious issues after being notified.
Protection from Unlawful Eviction
- Landlords cannot evict tenants without a court order.
- Tenants must receive a Notice to Quit before an eviction case is filed.
- If a tenant fights the eviction, a judge must decide whether the landlord can remove them.
Fair Housing & Anti-Discrimination Laws
- Landlords cannot refuse to rent based on race, gender, disability, family status, or source of income (such as Section 8 vouchers).
- Tenants with disabilities have the right to reasonable accommodations (e.g., service animals, ramps, grab bars).
Privacy & Entry Rights
- Landlords must give reasonable notice (typically 24 hours) before entering a tenant’s unit, except in emergencies.
- Unauthorized entry or harassment by a landlord could be illegal.
Protection from Retaliation
- If a tenant reports a code violation, asks for repairs, or joins a tenants' union, the landlord cannot retaliate by increasing rent, filing an eviction, or reducing services.
Connecticut Rental Assistance Resources
If you're a tenant in Connecticut facing financial hardship, these programs may be able to help:
Rental Assistance Program (RAP)
Connecticut's primary state-funded initiative assisting low-income families in affording safe and sanitary housing in the private market. Eligible participants receive certificates to choose their own rental housing, including apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes.
🔗 Learn more
UniteCT Workforce Rental Assistance Program
This program provides up to three months of rental assistance for qualifying participants enrolled in a workforce training program in Connecticut. It also offers up to $1,500 in security deposit assistance for tenants entering a new unit.
👉 Eligibility: Tenants must be registered for a workforce training program hosted by a Connecticut State Agency or a Connecticut Workforce Investment Board, lasting a minimum of four weeks.
🔗 Learn more
2-1-1 Connecticut Rent Payment Assistance
2-1-1 Connecticut connects residents with various agencies offering financial aid for rent payments. For example, Hands on Hartford provides a one-time grant of $1,000 paid directly to landlords for families experiencing hardship.
Moving Assistance Program
As part of the UniteCT initiative, this program offers security deposit assistance to tenants who have recently been evicted, possess a federal or state-sponsored housing voucher, or are clients of a Connecticut Housing Urban Development (HUD) office.
Hamden Community Services Rental Assistance Program
Provides financial aid to Hamden renters struggling to pay rent.
📞 Contact: Call Community Services at (203) 562-5129 ext. 1110
🔗 Learn more
2-1-1 Connecticut Rental Deposit Assistance
Various agencies provide rental deposit assistance, such as Hands on Hartford for Hartford residents and the Thames Valley Council, which guarantees up to two months' rent for eligible individuals.
DIY EVICTION ASSISTANCE
DIY - New Eviction
DIY - Motion to Dismiss
DIY - Motion to Dismiss
Self Help Assistance: Includes assistance with court forms (answer and special defenses), in depth consultation with attorney to discuss case, likely outcomes, court procedures and strategic plans, includes additional 15 minute follow up call with attorney.
DIY - Motion to Dismiss
DIY - Motion to Dismiss
DIY - Motion to Dismiss
Assist with Drafting a Motion to Dismiss, in depth consultation with attorney to discuss case, court procedure, likely outcomes and strategic plans.
DIY - Emergency Stay Requests, Post Judgment
Self Help Assistance - Draft an Audita or Motion to Open, in depth consultation with attorney to discuss case and likely outcomes including court procedures
Consult with Attorney
In depth consultation with attorney to discuss case, court procedure, likely outcomes and strategic plans
Security Deposits & Rental Increase
When Should a Landlord Return your Deposit and when are they legally able to increase your rent?
Key Rules for Security Deposit Returns in Connecticut
- If the tenant left the unit in good condition, the full deposit must be returned within 30 days of moving out.
- If the landlord withholds any portion of the deposit for damages, they must provide a written notice explaining the deductions within the same 30-day period.
- If the landlord fails to return the deposit on time, the tenant may be entitled to double the amount owed under Connecticut law.
Right to Proper Notice Before Rent Increases or Lease Changes
- Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before raising the rent or changing a month-to-month lease.
- Tenants on a fixed-term lease (e.g., 12 months) cannot have their rent raised until the lease ends unless the contract allows it.
Schedule a Consultation
If you need legal advice or representation, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.