What are the laws governing the return of tenants' security deposits?

In the state of Connecticut, the law governing the return of tenants’ security deposits is found in the Security Deposit Statute. According to the statute, upon the end of the tenancy, the security deposit must be returned to the tenant with 45 days, or the landlord must provide a written explanation as to why any portion of the deposit has been withheld. It is important to note that the security deposit may only be withheld if it is necessary to cover damages that the tenant has caused by breaching the lease agreement. Examples of damages may include costs for repairing damage to the property, unpaid rent or other fees, and the cost of cleaning the property before a new tenant moves in. Any allowable deductions must be listed item by item in the landlord’s written explanation. The written explanation must be sent via Certified Mail or other form of reliable delivery service. If the landlord fails to provide a written explanation, or if any of the deductions are not allowed by law, the tenant may file a complaint with the Housing Court. Finally, it is important to note that the landlord is responsible for maintaining the security deposit in a separate bank account. This account must earn interest, and any interest earned will accrue to the tenant. The landlord is also responsible for providing written notice to the tenant regarding the account in which the security deposit is being held.

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What are the laws governing the return of tenants' security deposits?

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