Connecticut Renters: Requesting Repairs That Work

If you’re a renter in Connecticut and facing maintenance or repair issues in your apartment, knowing your rights and the correct process can make all the difference. Connecticut law requires landlords to keep rental properties in a safe and livable condition, but getting repairs done sometimes takes clear action from tenants. This guide explains how Connecticut renters can request repairs in a way that gets results, including what forms to use, your rights under state law, and where to get more help if you need it.

Understanding Your Rights: Repairs and Habitability in Connecticut

Under the Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act (Public Act 47a), your landlord must maintain your home in a livable condition. This means:

• Keeping electrical, plumbing, heating, and appliances working safely
• Supplying adequate heat, hot water, and running water
• Fixing structural hazards or conditions that threaten your health or safety

If your landlord fails to make necessary repairs, you have specific options to demand action under Connecticut law.

How to File a Repair Request in Connecticut

Taking the right steps when something breaks helps ensure your request is acted on. Connecticut law does not require a specific official form for repair requests, but following a clear, documented process protects your rights if the issue isn’t resolved.

Step 1: Notify Your Landlord in Writing

Always let your landlord know about needed repairs in writing (email or letter). Include:

• Your name, address, and apartment number
• A clear description of what needs fixing (e.g., "Leaking kitchen faucet" or "No heat in bedroom")
• The date you noticed the problem
• Request for repairs to be made within a reasonable time (usually 15 days unless it's urgent)

Sample form: While Connecticut does not provide an official repair request form, several legal aid agencies suggest using a simple written letter. You can find a template at the Connecticut Legal Aid Sample Letter for Repairs.

Step 2: Wait for Your Landlord to Respond

Connecticut law expects the landlord to fix serious issues within a reasonable time after you notify them. If repairs are not made, you may consider further steps.

Step 3: If Repairs Aren’t Made—Contact Local Authorities or Take Legal Action

• Contact your city or town’s housing code enforcement office to inspect unsafe conditions. They can issue official orders requiring your landlord to fix violations.
• If the problem is still not resolved, you can apply to the official Connecticut Housing Court (a division of Connecticut Superior Court) by filing a Verified Complaint—Housing Code Enforcement (Form JD-CV-2). This form asks the court to order your landlord to make repairs.

For more on housing code and the courts, visit the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session website.

Key Connecticut Forms for Repair Requests

• Verified Complaint—Housing Code Enforcement (JD-CV-2): Use this if your landlord doesn’t make legally required repairs after you’ve given them written notice. Download the official JD-CV-2 form here. For example, if your heat is out in winter and your landlord ignores your request, this form lets you ask the Housing Court for help.

What Repairs Must the Landlord Make?

The law requires landlords to meet "habitability" standards. They must handle repairs that affect your health, safety, and basic living needs, including:

• Broken locks or doors
• No heat during winter (per local code)
• Unsafe electrical or gas systems
• Leaking roofs or plumbing
• Severe pest infestations

Cosmetic issues may not require immediate attention.

If You’re Facing Retaliation for Requesting Repairs

Connecticut law forbids landlords from retaliating against you (such as raising your rent or starting eviction) just because you asked for repairs. For details, see the retaliation section of the Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act.

Document Everything!

Keep copies of all written requests, photos of the problem, code inspection reports, and court filings. Good records help protect you if the conflict goes to court.

FAQ: Connecticut Renters and Repair Requests

1. Does my landlord have to fix everything I request?
   No. Landlords in Connecticut must fix problems that affect health, safety, or violate housing codes. Cosmetic issues (like minor paint blemishes) are not always required by law. Always detail why a repair affects your habitability or safety.
2. What if my landlord ignores my repair request?
   If your landlord does not respond after reasonable notice, you can contact the local code enforcement office or file the Verified Complaint—Housing Code Enforcement (JD-CV-2) with the Housing Court.
3. Can I withhold rent until repairs are made?
   Do not withhold rent without court permission. Under Connecticut law, withholding rent without a court order can lead to eviction. Always follow the legal process.
4. How fast must the landlord fix urgent repairs?
   Connecticut law requires "prompt" repairs for serious or emergency issues—a clear, reasonable time. Heat, plumbing, or safety issues should be addressed within days, if not hours, depending on severity.
5. Where do I file a court complaint if repairs aren't made?
   You file in the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session for your area. Find locations and filing instructions on the Housing Session website.

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• Always put repair requests in writing and keep records
• If repairs aren’t made, contact code enforcement or use Housing Court
• Never withhold rent on your own—use the official legal process to protect your rights

With clear steps and proper forms, you can effectively address repair issues and keep your home safe.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Legal Help: Housing Issues
• Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session (Tribunal for residential tenancy matters)
• Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – tenant/landlord information and complaints
• City or town code enforcement—find your office via your local municipal website

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1. Connecticut landlord obligations: Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 47a-7
2. Retaliation protection: Section 47a-20
3. Official Housing Court info and forms: Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session
4. Sample repair request letter: Connecticut Legal Aid
5. JD-CV-2 Complaint Form: Download here

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