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Bill

SB 253

AN ACT REPEALING SECURITY DEPOSIT MAXIMUMS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Sampson

Connecticut bill repealing security deposit maximums would allow landlords unlimited upfront tenant charges, potentially reducing housing affordability and accessibility for lower-income renters.

PUBLIC HEARING 0224
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Bill Summary · SB 253

Legislative bill overview

SB 253 would repeal Connecticut's existing legal caps on the maximum security deposits landlords can require from tenants. Currently, Connecticut law limits security deposits to specified amounts (typically equivalent to one or two months' rent depending on circumstances). This bill would eliminate those statutory maximums, allowing landlords to charge whatever deposit amount they deem appropriate.

Why is this important

Security deposit caps are a key tenant protection that prevents landlords from charging excessive upfront costs that can create barriers to housing access, particularly for lower-income renters. Removing these limits could substantially increase the financial burden of renting, affecting affordability and accessibility to housing across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Tenant affordability impact: Eliminating caps could price out lower-income households and those with limited savings from accessing rental housing
  • Leverage concerns: Without caps, landlords gain disproportionate leverage to extract larger deposits, potentially exploiting tenants with limited housing options
  • Deposit recovery fairness: Higher deposits increase disputes over return amounts and create larger sums at stake in landlord-tenant disputes
  • Market competitiveness: Landlords in less competitive markets could charge much higher deposits without losing tenants who have few alternatives

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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