How much may I charge for rent? There are several localities that enforce fair rent commission practices. Some of these cities are:
Bloomfield, Bridgeport, Colchester, Enfield, Farmington, Glastonbury, Groton, Hamden, Hartford, Manchester, New Haven, Newington, Norwalk, Rocky Hill, Simsbury, Stamford, Westbrook, West Hartford, West Haven, Wethersfield, and Windsor. Check with local housing officials, an attorney, or the rent control board for further information to ensure compliance.
May I charge an application fee, late rent charge, or a returned payment fee? Reasonable cost should always be kept in mind when initiating late charges, as there are no limits placed on the collection of an application fee. However, a returned payment fee must not exceed $20 and must be specified within the lease.
May I use a daily late charge?
Although this is not prohibited, it tends to be a rare practice and generally not encouraged.
How much may I accept as a security deposit? - 62 years or older, the security deposit shall not exceed 1 month's rent.
- 62 years or younger, the security deposit shall not exceed 2 month's rent.
Please Note: landlords must place the security deposit into an escrow account where it will earn annual interest at a rate set by the Banking Commissioner. Tenants are entitled to interest for all months on which rent is paid on time. Landlords must pay interest to the tenant each year (usually on the first day of each year). Landlords who fail to pay interest on the security deposit may be sued or subjected to a fine.
My tenant has moved out, what do I do with their security deposit? Landlords must return the balance of the security deposit within 30 days after lease termination, plus any unpaid interest, and if applicable a list of damages and/or monies that the landlord has deducted.
What is a common problem where security deposits are concerned? At times, landlords may try claiming deductions for items that are often characterized by the court as normal wear and tear. This situation may be prevented by realistically evaluating each deduction, providing proof of damage, as well as including repair receipts/ pictures.
How can I terminate a Connecticut lease? At least 30 days notice is required to end or renew a lease term in Connecticut.
My tenant was supposed to be out of the apartment and is still there. What can I do?If a tenant remains in possession without the landlord's consent after expiration of the rental agreement or its termination. The landlord has the right to receive the last agreed upon rent, (i.e. as specified within the lease.) or the landlord may end the lease by giving notice.
My tenant has not paid rent; how much notice do I have to give a tenant in order to evict them? If a tenant does not pay rent by the 10th of the month, a 3 day “Notice to Quit” (or by the 5th day of the week for a week-to-week lease) shall be issued.
How long does the eviction process take? As with any legal matter, exact timing is almost impossible as it depends on many factors. Overall, with no complications, the eviction process usually takes approximately 45 days.
Can I force my tenant to pay for attorney fees? There must be a provision in the lease providing for attorney fees, but only 15% of attorney fees may be charged to the tenant as specified within the rental agreement.
My tenant wants to pay only part of the rent owed? I have already started eviction proceedings; should I accept the partial payment? Be very careful not to accept any payments once the eviction action has started without stating on the check that it is “accepted as use and occupancy only" . Not doing so may invalidate the eviction. Also, if you have not started the eviction process and the tenant wishes to pay the rent and any associated costs in full, the landlord cannot refuse. Refusal to accept the payment may invalidate your eviction action even if it is after the l0th of the month. Evictions can be complicated and getting the advice of an attorney is strongly encouraged.
How do I tell if my tenant has “skipped” out of the rental property?
Often times it’s best to look for the obvious, such as removal of personal goods, whether or not the tenant has come back to the premises at any time during a one week period, and simply no food in the refrigerator. It’s extremely important to document all of the “proof” gathered in order to determine abandonment. When in doubt, if payment of rent has not been made, the landlord may always file for eviction.
Do I have the right to enforce no smoking in my rental property?
A landlord may establish a “No Smoking” policy by providing so in the lease.
Do I have to give the tenant notice before I enter the rental property? Landlords should give the tenants reasonable written or oral notice of their intent to enter the premises, and may enter only after tenants have given permission, except in cases of emergency.
Disclaimer: The information provided herein is intended as a general discussion of legal issues concerning landlord tenant law. Information provided is not legal advice or a legal opinion, and it is recommended that the reader seek independent counsel for any specific issue.