What Landlords Need to Know in 2025

Connecticut landlords, take note: rent increase rules have recently changed—and staying informed is essential to remaining compliant and avoiding unnecessary tenant disputes. Whether you own a single rental unit or a multi-family portfolio, here's what you need to know about the rental increase law that’s been in effect since October 1, 2024.

The 45-Day Notice Requirement

Under the updated law (Connecticut General Statutes § 47a-4e), landlords must now give tenants at least 45 days’ written notice before increasing rent provided the lease is for more than one month. This notice must be delivered in writing and should clearly state the new rental amount and the date the increase will take effect.

This applies to:

• Month-to-month tenants
  
• Annual lease renewals
  
• Any fixed-term lease longer than one month
  
  

For leases of one month or less, the notice must be equal to the rental period (e.g., 7 days for weekly leases).

No Cap on the Amount But It Must Be Fair

Connecticut does not impose a limit on how much landlords can raise rent. However, the increase must not be:

• Retaliatory (e.g., in response to a tenant complaint)
  
• Discriminatory
  
• “Harsh and unconscionable,” especially in towns with Fair Rent Commissions
  
  

Fair Rent Commissions: Your Tenants Can File a Complaint

Municipalities with over 25,000 residents are required to establish Fair Rent Commissions. These bodies allow tenants to challenge rent increases they believe to be excessive. If the commission finds the increase to be unreasonable, it can delay, reduce, or phase-in the increase.

For landlords operating in these towns (like Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, and Stamford), this means any significant rent increase could come under scrutiny even if you’ve provided proper notice.