HB 656 Summary

• Revises unlawful detainer definitions to include tenants engaged in criminal conduct or unlawful drug activity on premises, with three (3) days' notice requirement and faster trial timelines (12 days for standard cases, 72 hours for forcible detainer cases).

• Establishes procedures for security deposit disputes, allowing tenants to serve notice if deposits are not returned within 30 days and recover three (3) times the deposit amount if landlord fails to comply within five (5) business days.

• Requires security deposits held by third-party managers to be maintained in separate trust accounts at federally insured financial institutions, with exceptions for property owners and certain affiliated entities.

• Creates new provisions on premises abandonment (presumed when rent unpaid 15+ days and no evidence of occupancy) and abandoned personal property, allowing landlords to store items for 15 days before selling or donating them, with certain hazardous items exempt from storage requirements.

• Repeals section 6-311E (damages action) and modifies attorney fee provisions to exclude cases where treble damages are awarded, while clarifying complaint requirements and service procedures throughout the chapter.