Roommate Utility Payment Dispute

Summary

In Connecticut, if a lease states that tenants are responsible for utilities, unpaid utilities can be deducted from the security deposit. Small claims court is an option for disputes under $5,000. Contact Hartford County Court for more information.

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My current roommate is moving out. She hasn't paid me her half of the utilities for the past 2 months. I have sent her the invoices and she hasn't responded or sent me the money. What are my options? Is the landlord allowed to take this out of her security deposit? Do I have to take her to small claims court?
Who is the utility account under, you or your roommate?

In Massachusetts:
- Landlords can only deduct unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear from security deposits.
- Small claims court is an option for disputes under $*,*.
Mine, but im in CT
In Connecticut:
- Landlords can deduct unpaid utilities if it's in the lease agreement.
- Small claims court is an option for disputes under $*,*.

For small claims court in CT, contact Hartford County Court: (*) *-*.
does it have to say specifically in lease that the utilities have to be paid to me or just be paid in general
In Connecticut, the lease should specify who is responsible for utilities. If it's not specified, it's generally assumed that the landlord is responsible.
so if it says the tennant is responsible for utilities is that ok?
Yes, if the lease states that the tenant is responsible for utilities, then they are legally obligated to pay for them.
so since she hasn't paid me her half it can get taken out of her security deposit
In Connecticut, unpaid utilities can be deducted from the security deposit if it's specified in the lease agreement.
so even though it doe
Could you please clarify your last statement?
doesn't say me specifically thats ok?
Yes, as long as the lease states the tenant is responsible for utilities, it doesn't need to specify payment to you directly.
great thank you
You're welcome, ****! If you have any more questions in the future, don't hesitate to ask. Good luck with your situation.