CT HB05126

Landlords must offer tenants an opportunity to inspect rental units before occupancy and execute a written agreement documenting existing conditions, defects, or damages that cannot be deducted from security deposits upon move-out.

Landlords must provide written notice of tenant inspection rights upon termination of tenancy, with inspections occurring between two weeks and one week before the lease ends, and tenants receive an itemized statement of proposed deductions at least 48 hours in advance with opportunity to cure conditions.

Late rent fees are capped at $5 per day beginning on the tenth day of non-payment, up to $25 or 10% of monthly rent (whichever is less), or landlords may terminate the rental agreement after providing written notice of late payment.

Commissioner of Housing shall designate an employee as Rental Housing Ombudsman to receive and resolve tenant complaints regarding unsanitary or dangerous conditions, compile complaint data, and assist tenants in understanding their rights.

Ombudsman shall submit annual reports to the joint standing committee on housing regarding implementation, effectiveness, and additional steps needed to address dwelling unit complaints; complaints to the Ombudsman are admissible as evidence in summary process actions.