How do I validate a new landlord [CT]?

I rent an apartment and recently my old landlord company sold ownership of the property. They communicated nothing, and just disappeared like a fart in the wind. I contacted the corporate office but they (or at least the person I talked to) have no information on who they sold to.

Now I want to make sure that the new person leaving paper on my door is the actual new owner before I start giving them rent money and personal information. Is there specific documentation I should ask for that would certify their purchase/ownership of the property? Is there a city office that would have updated records on ownership?

As a bonus question, the new landlord has not yet provided any means to pay rent. I don't want to run into trouble with late payment, but currently I am unable (nowhere to send) and until I can validate their status as landlord I am also unwilling to pay them money. Should I send certified mail stating my intent to pay rent contingent on these points? Should I be putting aside the money in a new, empty bank account while I wait for these issues to be resolved?