Can I break my lease if I get new military orders?

Yes. Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act and Connecticut law, you can end your lease early without penalty if you receive qualifying orders. Provide written notice and a copy of your orders to your landlord.

Where do I go if my landlord won’t make repairs?

First, request repairs in writing. If unresolved, contact your local code enforcement office and, if needed, pursue action in Housing Court.

Are there special eviction protections for service members?

Yes. Federal and state laws may delay or stop an eviction if you are on active duty. Notify the court and provide documentation of your service status.

What’s the maximum security deposit in Connecticut?

Landlords can charge up to two months’ rent, or one month if you are 62 or older.

Where do I file a complaint if my rights are violated?

Start with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. For eviction or housing matters, contact the Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Sessions.

Connecticut Off-Base Military Housing: Renters’ Rights Guide

Special Housing Types & Situations Connecticut published June 21, 2025

Renting a home off-base in Connecticut as a military member or family involves unique considerations in addition to the state’s general tenant rights. Whether you’re new to the area or facing challenges like rent increases or repairs, knowing your rights under Connecticut law will help you feel secure and empowered.

Understanding Off-Base Military Rentals in Connecticut

Off-base housing means renting from a private landlord rather than living in military-provided housing. As a tenant, you’re protected by Connecticut’s residential tenancy laws, and may be eligible for additional federal safeguards specific to military personnel.

Military tenants have most of the same rights and responsibilities as civilian tenants.
Special protections apply under federal law, such as early lease termination when you receive permanent change of station (PCS) orders.
The Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Guide provides a helpful overview.
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection oversees many landlord-tenant issues.

Key Rental Protections in Connecticut

The main law covering renters’ rights in Connecticut is the Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 831 - Landlord and Tenant. Key highlights for renters include:

Limits on security deposit amounts
Right to a habitable and safe rental
Protections against unlawful evictions
Required procedures for rent increases and notices

Military personnel may also be protected under the federal Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), including rights to terminate leases early due to deployment or reassignment.

Common Issues for Military Renters and What to Do

Early Lease Termination: If you receive military orders to move more than 50 miles away or are deployed for at least 90 days, you can often end your lease without penalty. Provide your landlord with written notice and a copy of your orders.
Eviction Protections: If you are on active duty, state and federal laws may offer delays or special considerations during eviction proceedings.
Maintenance and Repairs: Connecticut law requires landlords to maintain properties in livable condition. You can request repairs in writing and, in some cases, withhold rent if major repairs are not made. If the issue isn’t resolved, you may file a complaint with the local housing code enforcement office.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

Notice to Quit (Form JD-HM-7): Used by landlords to initiate the eviction process. Tenants receiving this form should respond promptly. Official Notice to Quit (JD-HM-7)

Example: If your landlord serves you this form for nonpayment of rent, you typically have three days to move out or resolve the issue before further court action.

Summary Process (Eviction) Complaint (JD-HM-8): If you remain after a Notice to Quit, you may receive this court form as part of eviction proceedings. Official Summary Process Complaint (JD-HM-8)

Example: This form starts the formal court case to evict you. You must file an "Answer" within the court’s deadline to protect your rights.

For full details on the eviction process and landlord/tenant forms, visit the Connecticut Judicial Branch Landlord/Tenant FAQ.

Where to Get Legal Help and File Complaints

The Connecticut Judicial Branch—specifically, the Housing Sessions of Superior Court—handles residential tenancy disputes, including evictions and other rental issues.

Always keep a copy of any notice or official form you submit or receive. This helps protect your rights and provides proof if you need to appear in court or request assistance.

Action Steps for Common Military Renter Issues

Receive PCS or deployment orders? Give your landlord written notice and attach a copy of your orders. Reference the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act for your rights.
Repair problem or habitability issue? Send a written request and document the problem. If not addressed, contact local code enforcement or consider legal advice.
Served with eviction paperwork? Respond promptly. Use official forms and understand court deadlines. Consider consulting the court’s Housing Sessions or a military legal assistance office.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I break my lease if I get new military orders? Yes. Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act and Connecticut law, you can end your lease early without penalty if you receive qualifying orders. Provide written notice and a copy of your orders to your landlord.
Where do I go if my landlord won’t make repairs? First, request repairs in writing. If the problem isn’t resolved, you can contact your city or town’s code enforcement office and, if needed, pursue action in Housing Court.
Are there special eviction protections for service members? Yes. Both federal and state laws may delay or stop an eviction if you are on active duty. Notify the court and provide documentation of your service status.
What’s the maximum security deposit in Connecticut? Landlords can charge up to two months’ rent (or one month if you are 62 or older).
Where do I file a complaint if my rights are violated? Start by contacting the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. If the issue involves eviction or housing court matters, contact the Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Sessions.

Conclusion: Military Renter Key Takeaways

Military renters in Connecticut are protected by state laws and added federal safeguards for early lease termination and eviction issues.
Always use official forms and respond to landlord or court notices promptly.
Support is available from state agencies and legal resources.

Staying informed about your rights makes renting off-base less stressful, even if unexpected military moves or disputes come up.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – Landlord/Tenant Info
Connecticut Judicial Branch Landlord/Tenant FAQ (includes Housing Sessions info)
U.S. Department of Justice: Servicemembers Civil Relief Act
Connecticut Bar Association: Landlord and Tenant Law
Contact your base’s Legal Assistance Office for confidential support and guidance