Questions About The Security Deposit Laws In CT

By Matt Baumberger


If you are a renter or own a piece of rental property, it is crucial to be informed about the security deposit laws in CT. The purpose of these regulations and laws is to protect the renter and the landlord. These laws describe the responsibilities and rights of tenants and landlords concerning the return, holding, and collection of a security deposit. Below are some of the more common questions regarding security laws. These laws are effective statewide.

How much can a landlord ask for a security deposit?

If you are under 62 years of age, two months rent is the most you can be charged. If you are over the age of 62, the landlord can only charge you one months rent. If you have paid more than one months rent and are over 62 years old, by law you should be paid back the difference of your deposit.

Where should the security deposit be kept by the landlord?

The landlord must deposit the security deposit into an escrow account in a Connecticut bank according to the security deposit laws in CT. This ensures that the money remains the tenants property and cannot be taken by any creditors of the landlord. The law also states that the landlord must pay interest on the deposit amount upon the end of the lease agreement or it's anniversary.

Is the landlord required to give a written notice upon receiving the security deposit?

In short, no. The landlord does not have to give a written notice to the tenant when receiving the security deposit.

When, if at all, is it okay for the landlord to keep all or a portion of the security deposit?

A landlord can keep all or a portion of the security deposit if the tenant doesn't pay rent, damages the property in excess of normal wear and tear or violates other terms on the lease agreement such as unpaid utility bills.

When does the security deposit get returned to the tenant?

After the tenant leaves the property, the landlord has 30 days to return the security deposit and any interest according to the security deposit laws in CT. He will have 30 days also to return the security deposit if there is no forwarding address given to him or her. The landlord will receive 15 days from the time the tenant leaves the property if a forwarding address is given to them. If there is any damage to the rental or any lease agreement violations, the landlord has the right to keep some of the security deposit. The price of repairs and an itemized list must be sent to the tenant. If any of these security deposit laws in CT are not followed by the landlord, the tenant could have rights to double the security deposit.

What is the case if the landlord sells the property before the end of the lease?

The old owner will have to transfer the security deposit with any interest over to the new owner. The new owner would then deposit the money into a new escrow account for the tenant and would be responsible for returning it to the tenant.

See Section 47a-21 of the Connecticut general statues for more information on this. These are the most common questions about the security deposit laws in CT.




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