Connecticut Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Protections

If you’re a renter in Connecticut facing or recovering from domestic violence, the law offers special protections to help you stay safe in your home or move out quickly. Knowing your rights can help you make decisions for your safety, whether you want to remain in your rental or need to find a new place. This guide summarizes Connecticut’s current domestic violence tenant protections using clear language and official government sources.

Who Is Protected Under Connecticut Law?

Connecticut’s laws protect renters who are victims of domestic violence, including stalking and sexual assault. Certain tenant rights apply when you or a household member experiences abuse or the threat of harm. The law recognizes a range of protective court orders, such as restraining orders and orders of protection.^[1]

Special Lease Termination Rights for Survivors

Connecticut law allows tenants protected by a qualifying court order related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking to end their lease early—without penalty—if it is necessary for safety.^[1]

• Written Notice Required: You must give your landlord written notice at least 30 days before moving.
• Proof Required: Attach a copy of your court order (e.g., a restraining order) to your notice.
• Limited Liability: Your liability for rent will only include rent for the 30-day notice period.

This protection lets survivors leave unsafe environments quickly while limiting financial burden.

Which Forms Should Tenants Use?

• Notice to Quit for Domestic Violence Relief: There is no official Connecticut Judicial Branch form specifically for lease termination due to domestic violence. However, your notice must include:
• The date you intend to terminate the lease (minimum 30 days from notice)
• Reference to Connecticut General Statutes Section 47a-11e
• A copy of your qualifying court order or documentation
• Application for Relief from Abuse - JD-FM-137: Use this official form to request a restraining order protecting yourself or your children.
  • When to use: If you need an order of protection to attach to your lease termination notice.
  • View and download the Application for Relief from Abuse (JD-FM-137)

If you’re unsure about written notice, contact Connecticut Fair Housing Center for free help with forms and letters.

Changing Locks for Your Safety

You have the right to request a lock change for added safety after experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Here’s how it works under Connecticut law:

• You must request the lock change in writing from your landlord.
• The landlord must do it (at your expense) within 6 hours, or as soon as possible if outside normal hours.
• If the landlord does not act promptly, you may change the locks yourself, as long as you provide a key to the landlord within 2 days.

These lock-change rights are detailed in Connecticut General Statutes Section 47a-11e.

What Documentation Do I Need?

The law specifies you should have proof such as:

• A court-issued restraining order
• A police report documenting domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking
• Other legal documentation (such as a civil protection order)

Protections from Eviction and Discrimination

Under Connecticut law, landlords cannot evict you, deny you a lease, or increase rent solely because you are a victim of domestic violence or have used your rights under the law.^[1] The landlord may, however, evict the person who committed the abuse if they are a tenant or occupant.

How to Take Action: Steps for Connecticut Renters

If you need to end your lease or request a lock change for domestic violence reasons, follow these basic steps:

• Gather legal proof (restraining order, police report, or protection order).
• Write a notice to your landlord, stating your intent to terminate the lease or change the locks. Attach documentation as required.
• If terminating lease, give notice at least 30 days in advance.
• Ask your landlord in writing to change locks; if urgent and unmet by landlord, arrange for your own locksmith and provide a key to the landlord within 2 days.
• Keep copies of all correspondence and documents for your records.

These steps ensure you’re protected under Connecticut’s domestic violence tenant laws.

FAQ: Connecticut Domestic Violence Renter Protections

1. Can I end my lease early if I feel unsafe due to domestic violence?
   Yes, Connecticut law allows you to terminate your lease with 30 days’ written notice and proof, such as a court order.
2. Do I have to pay for the rest of my lease if I leave because of domestic violence?
   No. You are only responsible for rent during the 30-day notice period after informing your landlord.
3. How fast will my landlord change the locks if I request it for safety?
   By law, within 6 hours of your written request, or as soon as possible if outside business hours.
4. Does my landlord need a copy of my restraining order?
   Yes. You must provide proof, such as a restraining order or police report, when requesting protections.
5. Can a landlord evict me for being a victim of domestic violence?
   No. Connecticut law prohibits eviction, denial of tenancy, or rent increases solely because you exercised rights as a survivor.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Connecticut protects tenants facing domestic violence with early lease termination and lock-change rights.
• Your landlord cannot evict you or retaliate for using these legal protections.
• Always provide written notice and required documentation to your landlord.

Understanding and using your legal protections ensures you can act quickly to stay safe and maintain housing stability.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Department of Administrative Services (DAS) – Landlord-tenant guidance
• Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session – Handles rental disputes and housing issues
• Read Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Statutes (Chapter 832)
• Connecticut Fair Housing Center – Free advice and advocacy for tenants
• For emergencies, contact Safe Connect, Connecticut’s 24/7 domestic violence hotline: 1-888-774-2900

---

1. Connecticut General Statutes Section 47a-11e – Domestic violence protections for tenants
2. Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session – Official housing court information
3. Connecticut Department of Administrative Services – Tenant resources and information

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations