Connecticut Tenant Rights: Protection from Familial Status Discrimination

Connecticut law protects tenants and applicants from housing discrimination based on familial status. If you rent or are applying to rent, it's important to understand these protections, so you can recognize and address unfair treatment by landlords or property managers in the state.

What Is Familial Status Discrimination?

Familial status means whether you are pregnant, have a child under 18, or are gaining custody of a minor child. Under both federal and Connecticut law, landlords cannot treat you unfairly simply because you have children, are expecting, or are adopting or fostering a child.

Examples of Familial Status Discrimination

• Refusing to rent to families with children
• Offering different lease terms or rental prices to families
• Denying housing because of pregnancy or child custody
• Imposing extra occupancy restrictions on families

These behaviors are illegal under the Connecticut Fair Housing Act and the federal Fair Housing Act.^[1][2]

Connecticut Tenant Protections Against Familial Status Discrimination

The Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 814c specifically protect renters and their families from discrimination, whether it's during the application process, rental negotiations, or in ongoing tenancy.

• Landlords cannot ask if you’re pregnant, planning children, or about custody arrangements.
• They must apply the same rules to everyone, regardless of familial status.
• Advertisements cannot state preferences against families.
• Eviction, increased rent, or denial of repairs cannot be based on your family status.

If you suspect discrimination, you have official ways to take action and protect your rights.

How to File a Familial Status Discrimination Complaint in Connecticut

The Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) is the official agency responsible for handling housing discrimination complaints.

Step 1: Gather Evidence

• Collect emails, texts, voicemails, or written communications from your landlord or property manager.
• Save copies of advertisements or lease terms showing possible discriminatory language.
• Write down details of any in-person conversations.

Step 2: Complete the CHRO Intake Questionnaire

• Form name: Discriminatory Practice Complaint Intake Questionnaire
• When to use it: If you believe you've faced discrimination by a landlord or property manager due to familial status.
• How to use it: Complete the form describing what happened and when.
• Official source: CHRO Intake Questionnaire (PDF)

Step 3: File an Official Complaint

• Submit your completed questionnaire to a CHRO regional office. CHRO will contact you to move forward with the formal Discriminatory Practice Complaint if needed.
• Learn more at the CHRO Filing a Complaint page.

Which Tribunal Hears Housing Discrimination Cases in Connecticut?

The Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) investigates and holds hearings for discrimination complaints, including those involving familial status. CHRO is Connecticut’s official tribunal for housing discrimination cases.

Relevant Legislation

• Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 814c – Human Rights and Opportunities
• Connecticut Fair Housing Poster (PDF)
• Federal Fair Housing Act – Familial Status Protections

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is considered familial status under Connecticut fair housing laws?
   Familial status includes households with children under 18, pregnant individuals, and those gaining custody of a child.
2. Are occupancy limits allowed for families with children?
   Landlords may set reasonable occupancy standards, but they cannot use these to exclude families outright. Restrictions must be applied equally to all tenants.
3. What if my landlord raises my rent or gives me a notice after they find out I have a child?
   If a rent increase, notice, or other negative action happens because of your familial status, this could be illegal discrimination. You can file a complaint with CHRO.
4. Can a landlord refuse to make repairs because I have children?
   No, landlords must provide maintenance and repairs equally to all tenants, regardless of family status.
5. How long do I have to file a housing discrimination complaint in Connecticut?
   You must file with CHRO within 300 days of the most recent discriminatory act.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• It is illegal for landlords to discriminate against renters because they have children, are pregnant, or are gaining custody of a child.
• The Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) handles housing discrimination complaints.
• Act quickly—complaints must be filed within 300 days of the last discriminatory action.

Understanding these protections helps you advocate for your rights and hold landlords accountable in Connecticut.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Connecticut

• Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) – File discrimination complaints and get official information.
• Connecticut Judicial Branch – Landlord-Tenant Rights FAQs
• Connecticut Department of Housing – Housing assistance and program information.
• HUD Connecticut – Federal fair housing help and contact information.

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1. Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 814c - Human Rights and Opportunities
2. Federal Fair Housing Act - Protected Classes

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