Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Housing and Fair Rent Commission?
The Housing and Fair Rent Commission is a body established by the Manchester Code comprising nine electors and residents of Manchester appointed by the Board of Directors. The Commission serves a dual purpose. As the Housing Commission, it promotes and encourages the development of affordable housing by bringing together public and private resources, developing recommendations for comprehensive housing policies and goals, and facilitating the accomplishment of those goals. As the Town’s Fair Rent Commission, it hears and acts upon written complaints regarding rental charges on housing accommodations. Code §§ 28-33, -34.
Who can contact the Commission?
Tenants, landlords, property owners, Manchester residents, and others with questions or concerns related to fair housing, fair rent, or housing issues in Manchester may contact the Commission.
What issues are outside the Commission's authority?
The Commission generally cannot:
- Order evictions or stop an eviction proceeding.
- Resolve disputes involving security deposits.
- Enforce lease agreements or private contracts.
- Provide legal advice or represent tenants or landlords.
- Decide matters that are pending before a court.
Residents with legal questions should consider consulting an attorney who represents clients in housing matters or the appropriate state agency.
How do I file a fair rent complaint?
If you believe you have experienced an excessive rental charge, you may submit a complaint to the Housing and Fair Rent Commission using the Town's complaint form using this link: https://us.openforms.com/Form/cec96c6b-c6bc-4184-a952-6c4bba6399c4. Be prepared to provide information such as:
- Your name and contact information.
- The contact name, phone number, mailing address and email of your landlord.
- The rental property address.
- Information about the rental charge.
- A copy of your lease, if available.
- Any supporting documentation that may help explain your concern.
What happens after a complaint is submitted?
Once a complaint is received, Town staff will review it for completeness and determine whether it falls within the Commission's authority. Assuming the complaint is determined to be under the Commission’s authority, a representative from the Town of Manchester’s Human Services Department will connect with both the landlord and tenant to attempt to mediate the issue. If appropriate, the matter may be scheduled for review by the Commission at a hearing. In the event a hearing is necessary to resolve the complaint, the Town Attorney’s Office will provide the parties with the date and time of the hearing and the governing protocols. As part of the hearing, the tenant and the property owner will have an opportunity to provide testimony and supporting documents to the Commission.
Does the Commission or the Town Attorney’s Office provide legal advice?
No. The Housing and Fair Rent Commission does not provide legal advice. Its members and staff can explain the Commission's process and provide general information about available resources but cannot advise individuals on legal rights or strategies. Similarly, the Town Attorney’s Office represents the government of the Town of Manchester and cannot provide legal advice to individual residents, landlords, or businesses.
Is there a fee to file a complaint?
No.
Are Commission meetings open to the public?
Yes. Meetings are generally open to the public in accordance with Connecticut's Freedom of Information Act. Meeting dates, agendas, and minutes are posted on the Town's website.
Contact the Housing and Fair Rent Commission
If you have questions about the Commission or its complaint process, please contact the Town of Manchester at 860-647-3092. Staff can help determine whether your concern falls within the Commission's authority and direct you to the appropriate resources when needed.