When Can Connecticut Landlords Raise Rent for Pass-Through Costs?

If you rent your home in Connecticut, you may wonder when your landlord is allowed to raise your rent—especially for things like higher property taxes, maintenance, or capital improvements. These types of increases, sometimes called "pass-through costs," can be confusing. It's important to know your rights and what the law says about these charges in Connecticut.

Understanding Pass-Through Costs in Connecticut Rentals

"Pass-through costs" are extra charges a landlord adds to your rent to cover certain increased expenses. In some states and cities with rent control or rent stabilization, there are strict rules about what can be passed through to tenants. However, Connecticut does not have statewide rent control. This means that, in most cases, landlords set rents according to the lease agreement—but they still must follow notice rules and anti-retaliation laws.

When Landlords Can Raise the Rent for Extra Costs

Under Connecticut law, landlords may propose a rent increase—including for pass-through costs—once your lease period ends, or, if you rent month-to-month, with proper notice. There are some important rules to keep in mind:

• Notice Requirement: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent for month-to-month tenants.
• For fixed-term leases, the rent cannot be changed during the lease unless both parties agree.
• There is no state maximum for rent increases, but retaliatory or discriminatory increases are illegal. (See Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 832 - Landlord and Tenant)
• Certain towns (like Hartford and Stamford) may have local ordinances or hotlines—check with your local housing agency.

Landlords can pass along costs such as:

• Increased property taxes (if specified in the lease)
• Major repairs or capital improvements (if your lease allows this)
• Utility costs (if you pay them directly or if your lease allows utility increases)

If your lease is silent or does not mention pass-throughs, the landlord generally can't add new charges or increase your rent until the lease renews.

How Connecticut Law Protects Renters from Unfair Rent Increases

The main law governing rentals is the Connecticut General Statutes §§47a-1 to 47a-20e (Residential Landlord and Tenant Act). Here’s what it means for renters:

• Landlords cannot increase the rent in retaliation for you exercising your rights (like requesting repairs). (See Anti-Retaliation Law.)
• Discrimination in rent increases is strictly prohibited. For more, see the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.

Required Landlord Notices and Forms

Landlords must provide written notice of any rent increase. Although there’s no official state form specifically for rent increases, renters should look for a letter or document stating:

• The new rent amount
• The effective date of the increase (at least 30 days in advance for month-to-month agreements)

If you disagree with the increase, you may:

• Negotiate with your landlord or decline to renew your lease
• File a complaint with the Connecticut Housing Session of Superior Court if you believe it is retaliatory or discriminatory

Practical Example: Responding to a Rent Increase

Example: Maria receives a letter from her landlord stating that her rent will increase by $150/month in 30 days to cover recent property tax hikes. She reviews her lease, which allows increases for taxes. Maria checks state resources, and if she feels the increase is retaliatory or discriminatory, she prepares to contact the appropriate agency or file a court complaint.

In situations involving eviction for nonpayment after a rent increase, use Form JD-HM-8 (Summary Process (Eviction) Complaint). This is generally completed by the landlord but is important for renters to recognize. If you are served with a complaint, respond promptly with Form JD-HM-5 (Appearance) and consider seeking legal help. Find official instructions and forms on the Connecticut Judicial Branch Forms page.

Where to Find Help If You Disagree with a Rent Increase

If you think your landlord's pass-through rent increase is unfair, discriminatory, or retaliation for exercising your rights, you can:

• Contact the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – Landlord-Tenant Information
• File a complaint with the Housing Session of Connecticut Superior Court
• Seek mediation or free legal assistance from Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there rent control in Connecticut?
   No, Connecticut does not have statewide rent control. Rent amounts and increases are mainly set by the lease terms and local law.
   
2. How much notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase?
   Your landlord must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase for month-to-month rentals.
   
3. Can my landlord increase my rent to cover utility costs or taxes?
   Yes, but only if your lease allows it, or when your agreement renews. Always check your lease for specific terms.
   
4. What can I do if I believe my rent increase is retaliation?
   You may file a complaint in Housing Court or contact the Department of Consumer Protection for help.
   
5. Is there a form to dispute a rent increase in Connecticut?
   No specific form exists for disputing rent increases, but you can respond in writing, negotiate, or seek legal help if you feel the increase violates your rights.
   

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Housing Session of Superior Court – Handles tenancy disputes, including rent increases and evictions.
• Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – Landlord-Tenant Information
• Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut – Free legal help for low-income renters.
• Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities – Protection from housing discrimination.

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1. Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 832 (Landlord and Tenant Act), read here.
2. Connecticut Judicial Branch – Forms for Housing Matters, official forms page.
3. Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – Landlord-Tenant, official resource here.
4. Connecticut Housing Session of Superior Court, housing courts information.

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