How to Serve Eviction & Lease Termination Notices in Connecticut

How to Serve Eviction & Lease Termination Notices in Connecticut

Last Updated: September 1, 2022 by Marnie Snyder

In Connecticut, in order for the delivery of a lease termination or eviction notice to be legal, certain rules and procedures must be followed. If they are not and the case proceeds to court, the case may be postponed or dismissed by a judge.

Who Can Serve Notices in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, landlords cannot serve a 3 day notice to quit (for nonpayment of rent) or a 3 day notice to vacate (for an incurable breach of the lease), but a landlord can deliver a lease violation notice or lease termination letter themselves.

A state marshal, proper officer or a person specially appointed by the court must serve the 3 day notice to quit and the 3 day notice to vacate.

When Can Notices Be Served in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, an eviction or lease termination notice may be served any day of the week. For notices to be served by the state marshal, proper officer or specially appointed person by the court, they will inform the landlord when the notice is scheduled to be delivered.

For a 3 Day Notice to Quit, the eviction notice used for tenants that do not pay rent in full and on time, a notice can be served four (4) days after rent is due for a one (1) week tenancy or nine (9) days after the rent is due for all other tenancies.

Acceptable Forms of Service in Connecticut

In Connecticut, a notice can be served in the same manner, regardless of who serves it, using any of the below acceptable methods:

  1. Handing the notice to the tenant in person;
  2. Handing the notice to someone of suitable age and discretion at the premises; or
  3. Posting the notice in a conspicuous place at the premises, such as the entry door.

Obtaining Proof of Service in Connecticut

After serving the notice, the state marshal, proper officer or specially appointed person by the court will complete proof of service for the landlord, as required by law. The landlord can expect to receive the original notice with proof of service by mail.

After the landlord serves a notice, the landlord shall complete the declaration of service or certificate of service for proof of service.  The landlord should keep the original notice and proof of service in the tenant’s file for their records.

Connecticut Eviction & Lease Termination Notice Forms

Notice Form Grounds
3 Day Notice to Quit Eviction for Unpaid Rent
15 Day Notice to Comply or Vacate Eviction for Lease Violations
3 Day Notice to Vacate Eviction for Incurable Breach
30 Day Notice to Vacate Ending a Lease / No Lease

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