Connecticut provides solid tenant protections including source of income discrimination bans. Landlords cannot refuse to rent based on a tenant's use of housing vouchers. The state also has strong warranty of habitability protections.
Key Tenant Protections at a Glance
Quick Reference: Connecticut (CT)
- Source of income protection: Yes
- Rent control: No
- Security deposit limit: 2 months rent (1 month if 62+)
- Security deposit return deadline: 30 days (or 15 days if landlord fails to provide itemized list)
- Eviction notice (nonpayment): 3 days (lapse of time); 15 days for other causes
- Notice to end month-to-month: 3 days (lapse of time, no cause needed at lease end)
Source of Income Protection
Yes — landlords cannot refuse tenants based on housing vouchers or other lawful income sources.
Source of income protection means landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because you pay with a housing voucher (Section 8), SSI, SSDI, veterans benefits, child support, alimony, TANF, or other lawful income. In Connecticut, this protection is law. If a landlord refuses your voucher, you can file a fair housing complaint.
Rent Control
No — there are no statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws.
Security Deposits
Maximum deposit: 2 months rent (1 month if 62+). Your landlord must return your security deposit within 30 days (or 15 days if landlord fails to provide itemized list) after you move out. Deductions can only be made for actual damage beyond normal wear and tear, and your landlord must provide an itemized list of deductions. If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized list, you may be entitled to recover the full deposit plus penalties in court.
Eviction Process
In Connecticut, landlords must follow legal procedures to evict a tenant. Self-help evictions — changing locks, shutting off utilities, or removing belongings — are illegal. Here's what to expect:
- Nonpayment of rent: 3 days (lapse of time); 15 days for other causes written notice required before filing in court.
- Ending month-to-month tenancy: 3 days (lapse of time, no cause needed at lease end) written notice required.
- Court process: After notice expires, the landlord must file in court. You will receive a court summons and have the right to appear, present your defense, and contest the eviction.
If you receive an eviction notice, do not ignore it. Contact legal aid immediately for help understanding your rights and options.
Additional Protections in Connecticut
- Source of income protection (includes Section 8)
- Strong anti-retaliation statute
- Tenants can withhold rent for habitability violations
Where to Get Help in Connecticut
Free legal aid: Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut provides free legal assistance to low-income residents facing housing issues, including eviction defense, habitability complaints, and discrimination claims.
Housing finance agency: Connecticut Housing Finance Authority administers state housing programs including Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties, homebuyer assistance, and rental programs.
Find your local Public Housing Authority (PHA): PHAs administer Section 8 vouchers and public housing in your area. Use HUD's PHA contact directory to find yours. You can also see our guide on how to find your PHA.
211 Helpline: Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to connect with local housing assistance, emergency shelters, utility help, and social services in Connecticut.
HUD Fair Housing: If you've experienced housing discrimination, file a complaint with HUD's Office of Fair Housing or call 1-800-669-9777.