Important Lease Addendums for Connecticut Renters

Before agreeing to a new lease or renewal in Connecticut, it's important to review any additional terms the landlord includes in the form of lease addendums. These documents outline specific rules or exceptions that go beyond the standard lease. Understanding which addendums are commonly used—and which may impact your rights—helps you make informed decisions and avoid surprises during your tenancy.

What is a Lease Addendum?

A lease addendum is a written document that adds to or modifies the terms of your main rental agreement. In Connecticut, both you and your landlord must agree to and sign any addendums for them to be enforceable. Common addendums address things like pets, maintenance responsibilities, additional fees, or renewal conditions.

Key Lease Addendums in Connecticut to Review Carefully

The following addendums often appear in Connecticut leases. Not all are required by law, but they can significantly affect your rental experience:

• Lead Paint Disclosure: Federal law requires this addendum for homes built before 1978. The landlord must provide the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form and an EPA-approved brochure. This protects your health and gives legal recourse if the landlord fails to comply.^[1]
• Move-in/Move-out Condition Checklist: While not mandatory, documenting unit condition protects your security deposit. Use Connecticut's Condition Checklist or ask your landlord for an official inspection form.
• Pet Addendum: Sets out whether pets are allowed, any restrictions, pet deposits, and your responsibilities. Make sure all pet rules are clearly stated.
• Maintenance and Repair Addendum: May clarify who handles minor repairs. Connecticut law (§47a-7) requires landlords to maintain safe, habitable housing, so watch for addendums shifting unreasonable burdens onto tenants.
• Renters Insurance Addendum: Some landlords require proof of insurance. Check whether obtaining and maintaining insurance is a condition of your lease.
• Early Termination or Automatic Renewal Clauses: Know if your lease will automatically renew and under what conditions you can break it early. Connecticut law requires written notice for non-renewal and limits certain fees—see eviction and notice requirements.
• Late Fee and Utility Addendums: Understand any late rent fees, returned check charges, or how utilities are billed.

Why Reviewing Addendums Matters

Some agreements—like pet rules and termination penalties—can have a major impact. Read every addendum before signing. Make sure all agreed terms are in writing, and keep a copy for your records.

Official Forms You May Encounter

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form): Required for any pre-1978 property. Provides disclosure of known hazards. Download the official form. For example, if you're renting an apartment built in 1965, your landlord must provide and have you sign this form at lease signing.
• Notice to Quit (Form JD-HM-7): Used by landlords to notify tenants they're being asked to leave (for nonpayment or other reasons). If you receive this, review your lease addendums and Connecticut's laws to understand your rights. Official source: Download the form here.

What to Do If You Disagree with a Lease Addendum

If you feel an addendum is unfair or unclear:

• Ask your landlord to clarify the term, or negotiate revisions.
• If you reach agreement, have all changes in writing before signing.
• For illegal or unreasonable terms, contact Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection or seek assistance from tenant advocacy resources.

Connecticut Laws and Tenant Protections

Most lease addendums are subject to state law, including the Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act (CGS Chapter 832).^[2] This law sets standards for leases, notice periods, required repairs, and your right to a safe home.

The court handling residential tenancy disputes is the Connecticut Superior Court, Housing Session, which manages eviction filings and lease disputes.^[3]

Summary

Reviewing and understanding all lease addendums before signing can help protect your rights and avoid conflicts later in your Connecticut tenancy.

1. What if I don't agree with a lease addendum?
   If you disagree, discuss concerns with your landlord. You can propose changes or refuse to sign. Never feel pressured to agree to unreasonable or illegal terms.
2. Can I be forced to sign a pet or insurance addendum?
   Landlords can require these as a condition of the lease, but these terms must be presented up front and not added mid-lease without your consent.
3. What addendums are required by law in Connecticut?
   The Lead Paint Disclosure is required for homes built before 1978. Other addendums, like move-in condition or pet rules, are typically up to landlord and tenant agreement.
4. Where can I get help reviewing or disputing an addendum?
   The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection and local tenant advocacy groups can provide assistance.
5. If an addendum contradicts state law, which applies?
   State law always overrides any lease term or addendum. Unlawful or unenforceable provisions are not valid, even if you sign them.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection: Tenant and landlord complaint resolution, rental laws, and consumer assistance.
• Connecticut Superior Court, Housing Session: Handles disputes, hearings, and eviction cases.
• Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Act (CGS Chapter 832): Full text of tenant laws and protections.
• Connecticut Fair Housing Center: Free support and referrals for rental issues and housing discrimination.

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1. EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure information.
2. Connecticut General Statutes, Landlord and Tenant Act—Chapter 832.
3. Connecticut Superior Court, Housing Session.

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