Search RENTALS

 Your lease is a legal agreement that outlines your rent, lease term, security deposit, pet policies, maintenance responsibilities, parking, utilities and other important rules.

Before signing, make sure you understand exactly what you're agreeing to. If something was promised verbally, ask to have it included in writing.

 In Connecticut, a landlord cannot require more than two months' rent as a security deposit. For renters age 62 or older, the maximum is generally one month's rent.

Security deposits must also be held in an appropriate escrow account, and Connecticut requires landlords to pay interest on those deposits. The security deposit interest rate for 2026 is 0.49%.

 Connecticut renters are protected by federal and state fair housing laws.

Housing discrimination may be prohibited based on factors including race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, disability and several additional protected categories under Connecticut law. Connecticut also provides protections involving lawful sources of income, among other categories.

If you believe you've experienced housing discrimination, Connecticut's Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities is one resource available to renters.

 Don't assume you can simply skip your final rent payment because your landlord has a security deposit.

A security deposit is intended to protect against qualifying unpaid obligations and damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Continue following the payment requirements in your lease through the end of your tenancy unless you have a different written agreement with your landlord.

 Before leaving:

• Clean the property thoroughly.
• Take updated photos and video.
• Return all keys.
• Keep proof of your final rent payment.
• Provide your landlord with your forwarding address in writing.

Providing that forwarding address is particularly important in Connecticut. Generally, a landlord must return the security deposit with interest or provide an itemized notice of claimed damages within 21 days after the tenancy ends. If the tenant hasn't provided a written forwarding address, different timing applies.