This form is a generic complaint and adopts the "notice pleadings" format of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, which have been adopted by most states in one form or another. This form is for illustrative purposes only. Local laws should be consulted to determine any specific requirements for such a form in a particular jurisdiction.
Connecticut Complaint in Small Claims Court for Failure or Refusal to Return Money Deposited for Apartment When a landlord fails or refuses to return a tenant's deposit for an apartment in Connecticut, tenants have the option to file a complaint in the small claims court. This legal process allows them to seek the return of their deposit and potentially additional damages. Understanding the various types of complaints related to this issue is crucial for tenants seeking recourse. 1. Security Deposit Dispute: One type of complaint in Connecticut's small claims court is related to security deposit disputes. Landlords are required to return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenant has vacated the premises. If the landlord fails to do so and does not provide a detailed written statement explaining any deductions, the tenant can file a complaint seeking the return of their full deposit. 2. Deductions without Justification: If a landlord returns a security deposit but deducts an unjustified amount for claimed damages, tenants can file a complaint. They have the right to challenge these deductions and present evidence to support their claim that the deductions were unnecessary or excessive. The small claims court will assess the evidence and determine whether any portion of the deposit should be returned. 3. Failure to Notify in Writing: Connecticut law requires landlords to provide tenants with a written list of any damages claimed within 30 days of the lease termination. Failure to provide this written notice allows tenants to file a complaint in small claims court. They can request the return of their deposit and argue that the landlord's failure to comply with this requirement negates any claim for damages. 4. Failure to Return Interest: Connecticut law requires landlords who hold security deposits for more than one year to pay an annual interest rate of a specified percentage. If a landlord fails to return the rightful interest along with the security deposit, tenants can file a complaint, seeking not just the return of the deposit, but also the interest owed to them. 5. Unlawful Withholding or Non-Return: In situations where a landlord outright refuses to return the security deposit despite no lawful justification, tenants can file a complaint for unlawful withholding or non-return of the deposit. This type of complaint can seek not only the original deposit amount but potentially additional damages, as permitted by Connecticut law. In summary, when a Connecticut landlord fails or refuses to return a tenant's deposit for an apartment, they may face different types of complaints in the small claims court. These complaints can include disputes over security deposits, deductions without justification, failure to notify in writing, failure to return interest, and unlawful withholding or non-return of the deposit. Filing a complaint in small claims court allows tenants to seek the return of their deposit and possibly recover additional damages.
