Connecticut lacks statewide rent control or caps on increases in 2026, allowing landlords flexibility outside fixed leases. However, new laws expand Fair Rent Commissions to more towns, offer protections for vulnerable tenants, and mandate longer notices.
No Statewide Rent Caps
Landlords can raise rent by any amount at lease end or for month-to-month tenancies, provided proper notice. A 2024 law requires 45 days’ written notice for leases over one month, or notice equal to lease length for shorter terms. Increases mid-lease are invalid without agreement. This setup balances market freedom with tenant predictability amid housing shortages.
Fair Rent Commissions Expanded
Towns over 25,000 residents must maintain commissions to review “excessive” hikes, now growing statewide per 2026 laws. Elderly (62+), disabled, or low-income tenants qualify for caps tied to inflation, costs, and income—often 3-5% annually after hearings. Commissions can roll back unjustified raises; appeals go to court. Smaller towns gain commissions by January 1, boosting access.
Notice and Timing Rules
Written notices must specify new rent, effective date, and reason (optional). Deliver via certified mail, in-person, or conspicuous post. No increases within 120 days of habitability complaints or tenant rights exercises—retaliation voids them. Fixed-term leases lock rent until expiry.
Protected Tenant Safeguards
Vulnerable renters file complaints free; commissions probe finances, comparables, and hardships. Violations yield $25-$1,000 fines per offense, plus damages. Discriminatory hikes (e.g., based on race, family status) violate Fair Housing Act federally. Senate Bill 998 proposals for broader stabilization stalled, leaving locals key.
Landlord Perspectives
Owners justify hikes via taxes, insurance (up 20% lately), and maintenance. Transfers to new owners can’t spike rents immediately under review bills. Security deposits cap one month’s rent, returned timely post-moveout.
Tenant Strategies
Document everything; join tenant unions for bulk leverage. Negotiate via email trails. If facing hikes, check commission eligibility first—file within 30 days of notice. Relocation aid kicks in for condo conversions or major rehabs.
SOURCES:
- https://ctmirror.org/2025/11/12/ct-rent-cap-increase-landlords/
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-connecticut
