Who Pays for Internet in Connecticut Rentals? Tenant & Landlord Rules

For Connecticut renters, having reliable internet is often just as important as having heat or water. But who is responsible for setting up, paying for, or maintaining internet service in your apartment? Understanding your rights in Connecticut can help you avoid disputes and ensure you have the connectivity you need, whether you are moving into a new unit or facing issues with your internet service.

Internet Service Responsibility in Connecticut: The Basics

Unlike utilities such as heat, water, or electricity, internet service is not usually classified as an "essential service" in Connecticut rental laws. This means the responsibility for internet is typically decided in your lease agreement. Let’s break down the common arrangements:

• Tenant Pays and Arranges: Most apartments require the tenant to set up and pay for internet service directly with an internet provider.
• Landlord Provides: Some leases include internet in your rent, especially in multi-unit complexes or student housing. If so, the services and terms should be clearly described in your lease.
• Shared Connections: In some buildings, landlords may provide shared Wi-Fi. Ask about details, speeds, data limits, and privacy limitations.

What Does Connecticut Law Say About Internet?

Connecticut’s main law governing residential tenancies is the Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 832 – Landlord and Tenant. However, the law does not specifically require landlords to provide internet unless it is written into the lease.^[1]

Landlords are, however, responsible for maintaining "essential services" (like heat, water, hot water, and electricity) as defined in Section 47a-7 of the statutes.^[2] Internet is not included on this list.

What Should Be in Your Lease?

Your lease is the best place to check for information about internet service. It should state:

• If internet access is provided by the landlord
• If you are responsible for setting up and paying for internet
• Details about speed, restrictions, or allowable providers if internet is included

If your lease is unclear or you are unsure, it’s smart to ask for clarification before you sign.

What If There Are Problems with Your Internet?

If your lease requires the landlord to provide internet, and they fail to do so, you have a right to request that the service be restored. If the landlord does not resolve the issue, you may use official forms to notify them or request action:

• Notice of Inadequate Service (No official form number): Connecticut law allows tenants to give written notice of landlord noncompliance (e.g., failure to provide agreed-upon services).
  • When to use: If your lease includes internet and your landlord is not fulfilling that duty.
  • How to use: Clearly state the issue, refer to your lease, and give the landlord a reasonable time (usually 15 days) to correct it.
  • See the official guidance on notices at Connecticut Judicial Branch – Civil Jury Instructions.
• Housing Complaint Forms (JD-HM-15): If the landlord will not resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session.
  • When to use: If loss of internet violates your lease and all communications with the landlord have failed.
  • How to use: Submit the JD-HM-15 Housing Complaint Form describing how your rental agreement has been violated.

While Connecticut does not classify internet as an essential service, a landlord failing to provide what your lease promises (such as "high-speed internet included") can be addressed as a breach of lease.

How to Resolve Internet Disputes as a Connecticut Renter

Resolving internet issues usually starts with open communication. Here’s how to protect yourself and get results:

• Check your lease for internet provisions
• Contact your landlord with a clear, dated written notice
• If unresolved and your lease is being violated, file a formal complaint with the Housing Session of Superior Court

Your lease is your first guide—if internet is not specifically mentioned, you are generally expected to set up your own service and pay for it.

FAQ: Internet Service Issues for Renters in Connecticut

1. Does my landlord have to provide internet in Connecticut?
   In most cases, no. Unless your lease specifically says internet is included, the landlord is not required by law to provide it.
2. What if my lease says internet is included, but it doesn’t work?
   Notify your landlord in writing and give them a reasonable time to fix the issue. If unresolved, you may file a complaint with the Housing Session of Superior Court.
3. Can my landlord control which internet provider I use?
   Typically, no—unless specified in your lease due to building-wide arrangements or infrastructure limitations.
4. If I pay for internet separately, can I install necessary equipment?
   You generally can, as long as installation does not damage the property and follows your lease terms. Always check with your landlord first when physical changes are needed.
5. Where can I get help if I have a dispute about internet service?
   The Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session handles residential tenant-landlord disputes, including lease violations.

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• Internet is not considered an essential service under Connecticut law, but lease terms matter greatly.
• If your lease includes internet and it’s not provided, you have the right to request service and may file a complaint if unresolved.
• Always review your lease and communicate in writing to protect your rights.

Clear communication and understanding your lease can help avoid and resolve internet service issues in your Connecticut apartment.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session – Handles tenant-landlord legal disputes across Connecticut.
• Connecticut Department of Housing – Guidance and support for residential renters, including links to tenant rights and forms.
• Connecticut Fair Housing Center – Free advice and advocacy for renters’ rights and housing issues.
• Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 832 – Landlord and Tenant – Official rental law text for Connecticut.

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1. Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 832 – Landlord and Tenant Statutes
2. Section 47a-7, Connecticut General Statutes – Landlord’s responsibilities
3. Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session
4. JD-HM-15 Housing Complaint Form (PDF)
5. Connecticut Department of Housing

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