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Landlord / Tenant

security deposit—residential

Most residential landlords require tenants to pay a security deposit to cover any repairs needed when the tenant moves out, or to cover the tenant’s failure to pay the last month's rent.

Laws vary from state to state, but many states have statutes that provide the maximum amount of security deposit a landlord may require for a residential lease and the costs for which the landlord may use the security deposit (cleaning, repairs, unpaid rent) following termination of the lease.

These laws also provide a specific deadline (often 30-60 days) for the landlord to return the tenant’s security deposit following termination of the lease—after deducting any amount properly withheld, as allowed by law.

In Connecticut, residential landlords can require tenants to pay a security deposit, which is regulated under state law. The maximum amount a landlord can ask for is equivalent to two months' rent for tenants under 62 years of age, and one month's rent for tenants 62 years and older. The security deposit can be used to cover damages beyond normal wear and tear, cleaning to return the property to its original condition, and unpaid rent. Connecticut law requires landlords to return the security deposit, with an itemized list of any deductions, within 30 days after the tenant moves out. If the landlord fails to comply with this deadline or wrongfully withholds the deposit, the tenant may be entitled to double the wrongfully withheld amount, plus reasonable attorney's fees.

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Landlord / Tenant

security deposit—residential

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Connecticut State Code

Connecticut State Code

Landlord / Tenant

security deposit—residential

Articles