Overview
Connecticut has detailed security deposit laws that include requirements for escrow accounts and interest payments. These rules apply to all residential landlords and are designed to protect both landlords and tenants.
This guide covers everything landlords and tenants need to know about security deposits in Connecticut.
Deposit Limits
Connecticut law sets the following maximum security deposit amounts:
- Most tenants: Maximum of 2 months' rent
- Tenants aged 62 or older: Maximum of 1 month's rent
Landlords must deposit the security deposit in an escrow account at a Connecticut bank or other financial institution. The landlord must provide the tenant with the name and address of the institution where the deposit is held.
Additionally, landlords must pay annual interest on the security deposit at a rate set by the Connecticut Banking Commissioner or place it in an interest-bearing account.
cite: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21(a)
Allowable Deductions
Landlords may only deduct from the security deposit for the following reasons:
- Unpaid rent: Any rent owed at the time of move-out
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear: Costs for tenant-caused damage to the unit
- Breach of lease: Costs resulting from a tenant's failure to comply with lease obligations
- Cleaning: Costs to restore the unit to the condition it was in at the start of the tenancy, minus normal wear and tear
What Constitutes Normal Wear and Tear?
Normal wear and tear includes:
- Minor scuffs and small nail holes in walls
- Worn carpet from regular foot traffic
- Faded paint from sunlight exposure
- Minor marks around door handles and light switches
Damage beyond normal wear and tear includes:
- Large holes or gouges in walls
- Stained, burned, or ripped carpet
- Broken windows, fixtures, or appliances
- Unauthorized alterations to the unit
Return Timeline
Connecticut law provides two deadlines for returning the security deposit:
- 30 days: Standard return period after the tenant vacates the unit
- 15 days: If the tenant provides proper written notice of intent to vacate that complies with the lease terms
The return must include:
- The remaining deposit amount (after any deductions)
- An itemized written statement listing each deduction and the corresponding amount
- Any accrued interest on the deposit
If the landlord fails to return the deposit or provide the required itemized statement within the deadline, the landlord may be liable for double the deposit amount in damages.
cite: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47a-21(d)
Pre-Move-Out Inspection
Connecticut does not have a statutory requirement for a pre-move-out inspection. However, landlords and tenants are encouraged to conduct a walkthrough before the tenant vacates to document the condition of the unit. This can help prevent disputes over deductions.
Dispute Resolution
If a tenant believes their deposit was wrongfully withheld, they can:
- Send a demand letter to the landlord requesting the return of the deposit
- File a claim in Small Claims Court (up to $5,000)
- File a complaint with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection or local housing authority
Courts may award the tenant double the security deposit as damages if the landlord willfully failed to comply with the law.