Thursday, November 7, 2013

What Are 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.

What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in CT?

Two months rent is the most a landlord can charge a tenant if they are under 62 years old. If they are older than 62, the landlord can only charge one month's rent. If a tenant older than 62 has paid more than this, they have the right to ask the landlord to be reimbursed for the difference.

Where does the security deposit have to be kept?

Security deposit laws in CT require the security deposit to be put into an escrow account in a bank in Connecticut, where it will remain the tenant's property. This ensures no creditors the landlord owes money to can touch this security deposit. The landlord is also required by CT law to pay interest on this amount and return it to the tenant at the end of the lease agreement or anniversary of.

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

The landlord does not have to give a written notice after receipt of the security deposit in the state of Connecticut.

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?

Once the renter vacates the apartment or property, the landlord has a maximum of 30 days to return the security deposit and any interest to the tenant. The security deposit laws in CT also require these 30 days even if the landlord does not receive a forwarding address from the tenant. If the landlord does get a forwarding address, he only has 15 days from the time of vacancy to return the security deposit. The landlord can keep all or a portion of the deposit if the tenant has violated terms in the lease agreement or if there is severe damage to the property. The landlord must give the tenant an itemized list of repairs with prices for everything. If the landlord does not follow these security deposit laws in CT, the tenant has right to double the security deposit in return, in a lot of cases.

If the property is sold by the landlord, what happens to the security deposit?

The new owner would have the security deposit, and any interest, transferred over to him by the old landlord. The security deposit would then be put into another escrow account and the new landlord is now responsible for returning it to the tenant at the correct time.

For more questions and answers on security deposit laws in CT, see Section 47a-21 of the CT general statues.




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