Can I be forced to move out immediately after a foreclosure?

No. Connecticut law and federal rules require the new owner to provide at least 90 days’ written notice before ending your tenancy, and formal eviction through the courts if you do not leave after that period.

Do I have to keep paying rent during foreclosure?

Yes, you should continue to pay rent. If the property changes hands, confirm with the new legal owner (or through the court) where your rent should be sent.

What should I do if I receive a Notice to Quit?

Read the notice carefully. You may have the right to respond or negotiate. If you wish to fight the eviction, file an Appearance Form (JD-CL-12) and seek legal advice if needed.

Can the new owner raise my rent or change terms right away?

No. The new owner must honor your existing lease terms for the life of your lease, unless they intend to use the property as their main residence and give proper notice.

Where can I find Connecticut’s landlord-tenant laws?

You can review the official statutes at the Connecticut General Assembly Chapter 832 page.

Connecticut Renter Rights During Foreclosure

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Connecticut published: June 21, 2025

If you’re renting a home in Connecticut and your landlord is facing foreclosure, it’s natural to feel uncertain about your rights and what could happen next. As a renter, you’re protected by specific Connecticut laws and federal regulations designed to ensure you receive fair treatment, adequate notice, and clear information about your housing status during the foreclosure process. This article covers what you need to know, what steps to take, and where to find official help.

What Happens When a Landlord Faces Foreclosure?

When a property owner (your landlord) falls behind on their mortgage, the lender may begin foreclosure proceedings. This process can take several months in Connecticut. Importantly, renters have legal protections even if the property is ultimately sold or changes hands.

Connecticut law requires the new owner to follow proper eviction procedures. You cannot be forced out immediately after a foreclosure sale.
You should continue paying rent, but confirm where and to whom payments should go if ownership changes.
The new owner must provide formal written notice if they seek to end your tenancy.

Your Rights and Protections as a Renter

Both Connecticut state law and the federal Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act (PTFA) offer important safeguards:

90-Day Notice Requirement: The new owner must give you at least 90 days’ written notice if they intend to terminate your tenancy after foreclosure. This rule applies even if you do not have a written lease, or if your lease automatically renews month-to-month.
Lease Continuation: If you have a valid, written lease (not signed with a close relative of the former owner), you may be allowed to stay until the end of your lease, unless the purchaser intends to live in the home as their primary residence.
Eviction Must Follow Proper Legal Process: The new owner—whether a bank or individual—cannot remove you without a court-ordered eviction through the Connecticut housing courts.

To learn more about these protections, visit the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection: Landlord-Tenant Information page.

Key Forms for Renters During Foreclosure

Notice to Quit (KJD-N-1)

If the new owner wants to terminate your tenancy, they must serve you with an official Notice to Quit Possession (Form KJD-N-1). You’ll usually receive this form through service at your rental address. Receiving a Notice to Quit is the initial step before any formal eviction action.

When used: If you’re asked to move out after a foreclosure sale.
Official source: Notice to Quit Possession (KJD-N-1 PDF)

Summary Process (Eviction) Summons (JD-HM-32)

If you do not move out after receiving a Notice to Quit, the new owner must then file a formal eviction case. The Summary Process (Eviction) Summons (JD-HM-32) will be served to you, along with the complaint, giving you a chance to respond in court.

When used: If the owner seeks a court order to forcibly evict you after the notice period.
Official source: JD-HM-32 Summary Process Summons

Appearance Form (JD-CL-12)

If you want to contest the eviction in court, you must file an Appearance Form (JD-CL-12) with the Connecticut court, so you are officially a party in the case and receive all further notices.

When used: File this form with the court after receiving an eviction summons so you can participate in the court process.
Official source: JD-CL-12 Appearance Form

If you receive any court papers or notices, do not ignore them! You have a limited time to respond. Responding quickly helps protect your rights and may give you more time to stay in your home.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Connecticut?

All eviction and housing-related cases—including those involving foreclosure—are handled by the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session. Each city or region has a designated housing session or courthouse for landlord-tenant matters.

Relevant Connecticut Tenancy Legislation

Your rights during foreclosure are outlined in the Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 832: Summary Process Laws. You are also protected by the federal Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act.

What to Do if You Receive a Notice

If you’re notified that your rental is in foreclosure:

Keep copies of all communications and legal notices you receive.
Confirm where to send rent after ownership changes. Only pay rent to the valid landlord or court-ordered receiver.
Know that you have at least 90 days’ notice before any required move-out, unless your lease gives you more time.
If you receive a Notice to Quit or formal eviction papers, follow the instructions and consider responding with an Appearance Form.
You may contact a tenant advocate or legal aid service for help understanding your rights and preparing your response.

Acting quickly and knowing your rights will help you maintain stability during the foreclosure process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be forced to move out immediately after a foreclosure?
No. Connecticut law and federal rules require the new owner to provide at least 90 days’ written notice before ending your tenancy, and formal eviction through the courts if you do not leave after that period.
Do I have to keep paying rent during foreclosure?
Yes, you should continue to pay rent. If the property changes hands, confirm with the new legal owner (or through the court) where your rent should be sent.
What should I do if I receive a Notice to Quit?
Read the notice carefully. This is not an immediate eviction. You may have the right to respond or negotiate. If you wish to fight the eviction, file an Appearance Form (JD-CL-12) and seek legal advice if needed.
Can the new owner raise my rent or change terms right away?
No. The new owner must honor your existing lease terms for the life of your lease, unless they intend to use the property as their main residence and give proper notice.
Where can I find Connecticut’s landlord-tenant laws?
You can review the official statutes at the Connecticut General Assembly Chapter 832 page.

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters Facing Foreclosure

You have a right to at least 90 days’ written notice before a foreclosure-based eviction.
All evictions after foreclosure go through the Connecticut housing court system; you cannot be locked out or forced out without a court order.
Keep paying your rent and respond promptly to all legal papers to protect your rights.

Staying informed and organized is the best way to manage your housing situation if foreclosure affects your rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection: Landlord-Tenant Information – Guidance for renters and landlords
Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session – Find your housing court, look up case status, and access forms
Connecticut Legal Aid: Renters in Foreclosure – Legal guidance for tenants impacted by foreclosure
Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 832 – Official summary process (eviction) legislation