Pros and Cons of Month-to-Month Rental Agreements in Connecticut

Lease Agreements & Renewals Connecticut published: June 21, 2025 Flag of Connecticut

Month-to-month rental agreements offer flexibility for Connecticut renters, but they also come with unique legal rights and potential challenges. Knowing the pros and cons can help you make informed decisions and protect your housing stability under state law.

How Month-to-Month Rental Agreements Work in Connecticut

A month-to-month rental agreement (also known as a "periodic tenancy") is a lease that renews automatically every month until either you or your landlord give proper notice to end it. These agreements are governed by Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 832 (Landlord and Tenant Law)[1].

  • No fixed end date. The agreement continues as long as both parties want.
  • Either tenant or landlord can end it with at least 30 days’ written notice before the rental period ends.
  • All other tenant rights and landlord obligations remain in place, including rules for rent increases and evictions.

Pros of Month-to-Month Agreements for Renters

These flexible agreements can be a good fit for renters seeking short-term options or not ready to commit to a year-long lease.

  • Flexibility: Move out with only 30 days’ notice, no penalties.
  • No Long-Term Obligation: You are not bound to stay for a year or longer.
  • Good for Transitional Situations: Useful if you’re relocating for work, between homes, or need a short stay.
  • All Legal Tenant Rights: Maintenance and repair rights, anti-discrimination, and return of security deposit protections all still apply.

It can be reassuring for renters unsure about their future plans or who value maximum mobility.

Cons of Month-to-Month Agreements for Renters

This arrangement can also leave renters with less long-term stability than a fixed-term lease.

  • Less Stability: The landlord can end your tenancy or raise rent with 30 days’ written notice.
  • Potential for Frequent Rent Increases: Rent can be raised more frequently (with proper notice).
  • Short Notice to Move Out: If the landlord ends the tenancy, you may need to find new housing quickly.
  • Limited Negotiation: Landlords may have less incentive to offer improvements or negotiate terms for short-term tenants.

Overall, renters seeking long-term housing security may want to consider all options carefully before switching to or accepting a month-to-month lease.

Ad

Ending a Month-to-Month Agreement: What Tenants Need to Know

If you wish to move out, or if your landlord wants you to leave, Connecticut law requires proper written notice:

  • Notice Period: Either party can end the tenancy by giving at least 30 days’ written notice before the end of the rental period.
  • How to Give Notice: In writing—email or text is not legally sufficient. Physical delivery or certified mail is best.
  • Form Needed: There isn’t a specific required state form, but a Notice to Quit (Form JD-HM-7) is commonly used for landlords who wish to terminate or begin eviction proceedings.[2] Tenants can write a letter stating their intent to move out, including the date.
Always keep a copy of your written notice and proof it was delivered, such as certified mail receipt.

Form: Notice to Quit (Form JD-HM-7)

  • Used by: Landlords to formally notify a tenant to vacate.
  • When: To start the legal eviction process after a month-to-month lease ends or for other reasons specified in the law.
  • Where to get: Download from the Connecticut Judicial Branch website (official source).
  • Example: If your landlord wants to end your tenancy, they deliver this form to you (and a copy to the court) to start formal proceedings.

What If There’s a Dispute?

If you disagree with a rent increase or believe your rights are being violated, you can contact the official body overseeing residential tenancies in Connecticut:

Always review the Connecticut Landlord and Tenant statutes for your rights and responsibilities.

FAQ: Month-to-Month Rental Agreements in Connecticut

  1. Can my landlord raise my rent on a month-to-month lease?
    Yes. The landlord can raise your rent but must give at least 30 days’ written notice before the increase takes effect.[1]
  2. How much notice do I need to give if I want to move out?
    You must give your landlord at least 30 days’ written notice before the end of your current rental month.[1]
  3. What form should I use to give notice to my landlord?
    There’s no official required tenant form. A simple signed letter with your move-out date is sufficient. Always keep a copy for your records.
  4. What happens if the landlord wants to evict me?
    The landlord must give you a Notice to Quit (Form JD-HM-7), then may file for eviction through the Housing Session of the Connecticut Judicial Branch if you don’t leave.[2]
  5. Are my renter’s rights different under a month-to-month lease?
    No. All standard tenant protections under Connecticut law apply, including maintenance standards and return of your security deposit.[1]

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

  • Month-to-month rental agreements offer flexibility but less stability than fixed-term leases.
  • Both tenants and landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice to end the agreement.
  • Your rights to maintenance, fair treatment, and proper notice always remain protected under Connecticut law.

Understand your lease terms and know your options if you have questions or concerns.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Connecticut

  1. Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 832: Landlord and Tenant Law
  2. Connecticut Judicial Branch - Notice to Quit (JD-HM-7)

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
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

Related Articles