Adding a Roommate to a Connecticut Lease: Renter's Guide

Are you a Connecticut renter considering sharing your apartment or home with a new roommate? Adding a roommate to your lease can help you split costs and make living more affordable, but it’s important to follow the right process under Connecticut law to protect your rights and avoid potential issues down the line. This guide walks you through the steps, paperwork, and rules you need to know.

Understanding Connecticut Lease and Roommate Rules

In Connecticut, a lease is a legal contract between the landlord and the tenants listed in the agreement. Adding someone new—such as a roommate—means updating this contract with landlord approval. If you let a new person move in without following the right process, you could risk eviction for breaching your lease terms.

Check Your Lease for Occupancy and Subletting Clauses

• Review your current lease for limitations on the number of occupants or specific rules about roommates and subletting.
• Some leases prohibit adding roommates without written landlord consent.
• If in doubt, contact your landlord or property manager before making any arrangements.

Connecticut law does not guarantee the right to add a roommate, but landlords must apply rules fairly and cannot discriminate based on protected characteristics.^[1]

How to Add a Roommate: Step-by-Step

To lawfully add a roommate in Connecticut and make sure both you and your new housemate are protected, take these steps:

• Notify your landlord in writing: Use a formal letter or email. Include your name, unit address, current lease start/end date, and the full name of the proposed roommate. State your request to add the individual to the lease.
• Have your roommate complete a rental application: Landlords can require the same screening (background check, income verification) as with any tenant.
• Sign a lease addendum or a new lease: If approved, your landlord will likely have you and your roommate sign either a Connecticut Lease Addendum (no universal form, but some local housing authorities offer templates) or draft a new lease that names both parties. This document should outline occupancy, rent payment, and shared responsibilities.
• Keep records of all communications and agreements: Save copies of your written request, your landlord’s approval, your roommate’s application, and the executed lease addendum.

Relevant Forms for Renters

• Rental Application Form (no state-issued number): Used by landlords to screen new occupants. Your roommate should complete one if your landlord requests. You’ll find typical applications from the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) or your local housing authority.
• Lease Addendum: Roommate Addition (customized by landlord or management company): This document officially adds your roommate to the lease, specifying shared obligations. Ask your landlord or property manager for their official form; templates may also be available from local housing resources. An example template and more about lease modifications can be found at the Connecticut Judicial Branch - Landlord/Tenant Law page.

Currently, there is no standardized state form just for adding a roommate; it is handled through the lease or an amendment/addendum provided by your landlord or property manager.

What If the Landlord Refuses?

If your landlord unreasonably refuses to consider your request, or denies based on discrimination, you may have options to file a complaint with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) for fair housing violations.

Your Rights and Legal Protections

All Connecticut tenants—including new roommates added to a lease—are protected under the Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 832). This law covers important tenant rights about repairs, deposit returns, and notice requirements for eviction.^[2]

• Once a roommate is added to the lease, they have the same rights and responsibilities as you do.
• If your roommate is not on the lease, they might not have full legal standing if issues arise—an important reason to get everything in writing.

For disputes about eviction or lease enforcement, Connecticut’s main authority is the Connecticut Superior Court – Housing Session.

FAQ: Roommates and Lease Changes in Connecticut

1. Can my landlord raise the rent if I add a roommate?
   In most cases, your landlord can only change the rent amount if both parties agree and a new lease or amendment is signed. The original lease terms still control unless officially changed.
2. Is my roommate responsible for rent and damages if added to the lease?
   Yes, once your roommate is a named tenant on the lease, they are equally responsible for rent payments and any damages.
3. Do I need landlord approval to let someone stay temporarily?
   Most leases allow brief visits from guests, but anyone staying long-term should be cleared with your landlord and formally added to the lease.
4. Are there penalties for adding a roommate without permission?
   Adding a roommate without landlord approval can violate your lease and put you at risk of eviction.

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• Always check your lease and get written landlord approval before adding a roommate.
• Use a lease addendum or new lease to clearly define rights, rent share, and responsibilities.
• Keep documentation of all agreements and communications with your landlord.

Following these steps will help you and your roommate stay protected under Connecticut rental law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – Housing and tenant rights information
• Connecticut Judicial Branch - Landlord/Tenant Law
• Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities – Discrimination complaints and fair housing questions
• Connecticut Superior Court – Housing Session – Tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes

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1. See Connecticut General Statutes § 46a-64c – Discriminatory Housing Practices
2. Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 832 – Landlord and Tenant

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