Connecticut Move-In Inspection Checklist for Renters

Before signing a new lease in Connecticut, inspecting your future rental is crucial for a smooth move-in experience. A careful move-in inspection helps protect your security deposit and ensures all state-required disclosures are met. This guide covers what renters in Connecticut need to check, official forms to use, and your rights under state law.

Why a Move-In Inspection Matters for Connecticut Renters

A move-in inspection documents the condition of your rental before you take possession. This record keeps you from being wrongly charged for pre-existing damage when you move out. Landlords in Connecticut are required to maintain rentals in a safe and decent condition and must provide specific disclosures to tenants under state law.^[1]

Key Things to Inspect Before Signing Your Connecticut Lease

Walking through the apartment or house with your landlord—or their agent—before signing the lease is a smart move. Here’s what to look for during your inspection:

• Doors & Locks: Ensure all doors (main, patio, bedroom) have functioning locks and keys. Check that entries close securely.
• Windows: Look for cracks, broken glass, or windows that don’t open/close. Test locks and screens for damage.
• Appliances: Test the stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and any included appliances to make sure they work.
• Plumbing: Turn on each faucet and flush toilets. Look for leaks, drips, or water damage under sinks.
• Electric & Lighting: Flip all light switches, check outlets, and test any ceiling fans.
• Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Verify they’re working and in every required area.
• Heating & Air Conditioning: Test the temperature controls and listen for strange noises.
• Walls, Ceilings, & Floors: Watch for stains, odors, holes, or signs of pest infestation.
• General Cleanliness: The unit should be clean and free of hazardous materials.

Required Move-In Disclosures for Connecticut

Connecticut law requires landlords to share certain information before move-in:

• Lead Paint Disclosure: For buildings built before 1978, landlords must give you the federal lead paint disclosure form and EPA pamphlet.
• Landlord Contact Information: The owner’s name and address must be included in the lease (Connecticut General Statutes § 47a-6).
• Security Deposit Receipt: If you pay a deposit, request a written receipt and keep it with your records.
• Notice of Fire Sprinkler System: Connecticut law (C.G.S. § 47a-3f) requires landlords to disclose whether the property is protected by a fire sprinkler system.^[2]

Official Move-In Inspection Forms and How to Use Them

Connecticut does not require a standard statewide move-in checklist, but it is highly recommended to use a written one. Many local agencies and renters' resources offer forms that document the unit’s condition.

• Sample Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (Recommended): While not a mandated state form, you can use the Connecticut Judicial Branch Sample Inspection Checklist. Fill it out with your landlord at move-in, noting all damage or issues. Both parties should sign and date the checklist, and you should keep a copy.

Practical Tip: Take timestamped photos of any damage and attach them to your checklist for added proof.

Your Rights Under Connecticut Law

Connecticut’s Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 832) protects renters by requiring landlords to keep properties fit and habitable.^[1] If a landlord fails to disclose hazards or provide a safe environment, you have the right to file a complaint or request repairs through the appropriate channels.

Tip: Never sign a lease or pay a security deposit before finishing your inspection and receiving all required disclosures. Get everything in writing—including repairs your landlord promises to make before move-in!

Action Steps: How to Document and Report Move-In Issues in Connecticut

Follow these steps to protect yourself and help avoid disputes later:

• Arrive prepared with a copy of your move-in checklist and camera or smartphone.
• Inspect the unit with the landlord or agent present. Mark each issue and take photos.
• Request written disclosures (lead paint, fire sprinklers, security deposit) and keep them safe.
• Sign and date the checklist; ask your landlord to do the same. Each should retain a copy.
• If your landlord refuses to address major issues, contact your local housing authority or the Connecticut Judicial Branch’s Landlord/Tenant Unit.

This process ensures you have proof of the unit's condition and all state-required disclosures before committing to a lease.

FAQs: Connecticut Move-In Inspections & Rights

1. Is a move-in checklist required by Connecticut law? Connecticut does not mandate a specific checklist, but written documentation is strongly recommended for your protection.
2. What if the landlord won’t fix something before I move in? Note it on your checklist and get their promise to repair in writing. If it’s a serious issue, you can contact the local housing authority or consider delaying signing.
3. Are landlords required to test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before move-in? Yes. State law requires landlords to install and maintain detectors in all rental units.
4. Where do I report unresolved safety or code issues? You can contact your town or city housing code office or file a case with the Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session.
5. Does my security deposit have to be held in a separate account? Yes. Connecticut law (C.G.S. § 47a-21) requires landlords to hold your deposit in an interest-bearing account and provide annual interest.^[3]

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• Conduct and document a thorough move-in inspection before signing your lease.
• Request and retain all state-required disclosures from your landlord.
• If issues aren’t fixed, know how to seek help from Connecticut’s official housing authorities.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Connecticut

• Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session – Handles disputes and landlord/tenant cases
• Connecticut Department of Housing – State programs and tenant protections
• Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Statute (Chapter 832)
• Sample Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (Connecticut Judicial Branch)

---

1. Connecticut General Statutes - Chapter 832: Landlord and Tenant
2. C.G.S. § 47a-3f - Fire Sprinkler System Disclosure
3. C.G.S. § 47a-21 - Security Deposits

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