Connecticut Rules on Late Rent Fees for Renters

If you’re renting in Connecticut, knowing your rights around late rent fees can help prevent stress and financial surprises. Understanding how much your landlord can legally charge—and when—can make a big difference if you ever find yourself paying rent after the due date. This guide explains late rent fees for Connecticut renters, including key state rules, what to expect, and your options if you believe a fee is unfair.

What Are Late Rent Fees?

Late rent fees are extra charges landlords may assess if your rent is not paid by the agreed-upon due date. These fees are meant to motivate on-time payment but must comply with state law in Connecticut.

How Much Can Landlords Charge in Connecticut?

Under Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 830 – Landlord and Tenant, a landlord cannot charge a late rent fee unless the rent is paid more than nine days late for monthly leases or four days late for week-to-week leases.^[1] The law does not specify a fixed dollar cap for late fees, but it does require the fee to be “reasonable.” In practice, courts in Connecticut often consider a late fee of no more than 5% of the rent as reasonable, although higher amounts may be challenged.

• No late fee may be charged until rent is more than 9 days late (monthly rental) or 4 days late (weekly rental).
• Fees must be reasonable—generally, they should not exceed 5% of your total rent.
• Any late fee should be clearly stated in your written lease agreement.

Example:

If your rent is $1,200/month, your late fee should generally not exceed $60. If it does, you may have grounds to dispute the charge.

Requirements for Charging Late Fees

For a landlord to legally charge a late rent fee in Connecticut:

• Your lease must clearly specify the amount and timing of the late fee.
• The rent must be late by more than 9 days (monthly lease) or more than 4 days (week-to-week lease).
• The amount must be reasonable and not excessive.

If your lease does not mention late fees, your landlord cannot legally charge one.

How Are Disputes About Late Fees Handled?

If you disagree with a late rent fee, first review your lease and communicate your concerns in writing with your landlord. If the issue isn’t resolved, you can seek help from the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session, which addresses landlord-tenant disputes including improper charges.^[2]

Relevant Official Forms

• Small Claims Writ and Notice of Suit (Form JD-CV-40):
  Use this form to file a claim if your landlord charges you an unlawful late fee and you seek reimbursement.
  View and Download the Small Claims Writ (JD-CV-40).
  How to use: Complete this form and submit it to your local court with a copy of your lease and documentation of the late fee dispute.
• Complaint (Housing Matters) (Form JD-HM-36):
  If the late fee escalates to an eviction or if you are being unfairly treated, use this form to file a housing complaint.
  View and Download the Complaint (Housing Matters) (JD-HM-36).
  How to use: This form is used to start a case in Housing Session court for a variety of housing-related issues, including improper late fees.

Can a Landlord Start Eviction for Late Fees?

A landlord in Connecticut cannot start an eviction case solely because you owe a late fee unless it is part of your overall unpaid rent. However, if you owe rent plus late fees and do not pay after written notice, the landlord can begin the eviction process. You will receive an official legal notice before any court process begins.

Summary: Key Rules on Late Rent Fees in Connecticut

• Late fees can only be charged when rent is more than 9 days late (monthly), and the fee must be reasonable and included in your lease.
• Total fee should not generally exceed 5% of your rent.
• Disputes can be addressed through Connecticut’s Housing Session courts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Late Rent Fees in Connecticut

1. How many days late before a landlord can charge a late fee?
   For monthly leases, a late fee can only be charged if rent is more than 9 days late. For week-to-week leases, it’s more than 4 days.
2. Is there a maximum late fee in Connecticut?
   Connecticut law requires late fees to be reasonable, but does not set a dollar limit. In most cases, courts accept up to 5% of the rent as reasonable.
3. What should I do if my landlord charges an excessive late fee?
   Contact your landlord with your concerns in writing, and if unresolved, file a complaint in Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session using the correct form.
4. Can a landlord evict me for late fees?
   A landlord cannot evict you for owing a late fee alone, but can start eviction if rent (including late fees) remains unpaid after notice.
5. Is a late fee legal if it’s not in my lease?
   No. Connecticut law states a landlord may only charge a late fee if it’s clearly agreed upon in your lease.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Superior Court: Housing Session – Handles all official landlord-tenant disputes
• Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – Consumer complaints and housing guidance
• Small Claims Court – For seeking damages due to improper late fees
• Connecticut Fair Housing Center – Free resources and legal information for renters

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1. [1] Connecticut General Statutes § 47a-15a - Late rent payment
2. [2] Connecticut Superior Court: Housing Session

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