Connecticut Landlord Repair Duties: Your Rights Explained

If you're renting a home or apartment in Connecticut, understanding your landlord's repair obligations is crucial for ensuring safe, livable housing. Connecticut law requires landlords to keep rental properties in good condition—but what does this mean for you as a renter, and what can you do if repairs are not handled promptly?

Landlord Repair Responsibilities Under Connecticut Law

Under the Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 832 - Landlord and Tenant, landlords must maintain their rental properties in a safe, sanitary, and habitable condition. This includes both the unit you rent and any shared spaces like hallways, entryways, or laundry rooms.

What Landlords Must Repair

• Keep the property free from health and safety hazards (such as mold, lead paint, or exposed wiring)
• Ensure plumbing, heating, and electrical systems are working properly
• Repair broken appliances supplied with the unit (like a refrigerator or stove, if provided in your lease)
• Address pest or insect infestations in a timely manner
• Maintain adequate locks and security features on doors and windows
• Comply with local building and housing codes affecting health and safety

For a complete list of landlord responsibilities, review Connecticut General Statutes § 47a-7, which outlines requirements for repairs, maintenance, and habitability.^[1]

Your Duty as a Renter

• Report repair issues to your landlord as soon as possible, preferably in writing
• Maintain your unit in a clean and sanitary way
• Not damage or misuse any part of the property
• Comply with health and safety obligations that apply to tenants

Addressing issues quickly helps you protect your rights to a habitable home and avoid potential misunderstandings.

How to Request Repairs in Connecticut

If something in your home needs fixing, start by notifying your landlord in writing. This creates a record and helps your landlord understand the issue clearly.

• Describe the problem—be specific (for example, "The thermostat is broken, and the apartment is too cold.")
• Date your communication and keep a copy for your records
• Allow a reasonable time for repairs (Connecticut law doesn't set a strict timeline, but urgent safety repairs should be addressed quickly)

What If Repairs Are Not Made?

If your landlord fails to make necessary repairs within a reasonable time, you have specific legal remedies:

• Contact your local Fair Housing office or Housing Code Enforcement to file a complaint
• In some cases, you may be allowed to pay for repairs yourself and deduct the cost from your rent ("repair and deduct"), but you must first follow the law’s notification requirements
• Request a court order for repairs using official CT court forms

Official Forms for Renters in Connecticut

• Complaint - Housing Matters (Form JD-HM-2)
  Use if you want to file a lawsuit in the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session to enforce repair rights.
  Download Complaint - Housing Matters (JD-HM-2)
  Example: If you’ve notified your landlord in writing about a broken heater, but they haven’t fixed it, you can use this form to ask the court to order repairs.
• Motion for Order to Comply with Lease or Statute (Form JD-HM-21)
  File this if you want the court to require your landlord to make repairs as required by law.
  Download Motion for Order to Comply (JD-HM-21)
  Example: If your landlord won’t address repeated safety or health violations after being notified, use this form to request a court order compelling repairs.

Submit all forms to the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session, which is the tribunal handling landlord-tenant disputes in the state.^[2]

Key Connecticut Law Protecting Renters

• CGS § 47a-7 – Landlord’s Responsibilities
• CGS § 47a-13 – Tenant’s Remedies for Landlord’s Failure to Comply
• Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session (Official Tribunal)

These laws protect your right to safe, livable housing and outline how to get repairs handled if issues arise.

FAQ: Renters' Repair and Maintenance Rights in Connecticut

1. What repairs are Connecticut landlords legally responsible for?
   Landlords must fix things affecting health and safety, like heat, plumbing, structural problems, and common areas. They’re also required to follow all building and housing codes affecting habitability.
2. How long does my landlord have to fix something in Connecticut?
   Connecticut law requires repairs to be made within a "reasonable time." For critical repairs (heat or water), prompt action is required—often just a few days depending on urgency.
3. What if my landlord ignores repair requests?
   You can file a complaint with your local housing or health department, or submit a motion to the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session using official forms. Keep all written records of the issue and your communication.
4. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn’t make repairs?
   Withholding rent is risky unless you follow state law precisely. Usually, it’s safer to file a court action first. Consult the statutes and court before withholding any rent payments.
5. Where can I get help with a rental repair dispute?
   Contact the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session, your local housing authority, or state legal aid for guidance and support.

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• Landlords must keep your home safe and habitable—as required by Connecticut law
• Always notify your landlord in writing about repairs and keep copies
• Use official CT court forms and resources for unresolved issues

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Department of Housing – Fair Housing Program
• Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session (Landlord-Tenant Tribunal)
• Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut – Tenant Resources
• Connecticut Department of Housing – Official Website

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1. Connecticut General Statutes § 47a-7
2. Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session

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