Rent increases are something every tenant may face at some point. However, when and how a landlord can raise rent depends on the rental agreement and the local laws. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the process:
Can My Landlord Raise My Rent at Any Time?
Without rent control laws, landlords generally have the right to raise your rent. However, they can’t just do this whenever they feel like it. They must follow specific rules and provide proper notice. Rent increases cannot be done for unfair reasons, such as retaliation or discrimination.
Types of Rental Agreements
Rent increases mainly depend on the type of rental agreement:
- Lease Agreement: If you have a fixed-term lease, such as a one-year lease, the landlord cannot raise your rent until the lease ends. Once the lease is up, they can increase the rent, unless there are rent control laws in place to limit the increase.
- Month-to-Month Agreement: If you have a month-to-month rental agreement, the landlord can increase your rent more easily. However, they must provide written notice (usually 30 days in advance) before increasing your rent.
Rent Increases During a Lease
If you have a lease agreement, your landlord cannot raise the rent during the lease term unless it’s specifically allowed in the lease, or if you agree to the increase (for example, if you get a new pet or roommate). When the lease ends, the landlord can raise the rent as they see fit, unless local rent control rules limit the amount they can increase it.
Rent Increases for Month-to-Month Tenants
For month-to-month tenants, the process is more flexible. Your landlord must still provide you with written notice before raising the rent, usually 30 days in advance. Verbal notices are not valid in most cases.
What to Do if You Think the Rent Increase is Unfair
- Month-to-Month Tenants: If you get a notice about a rent increase, ask the landlord to put it in writing. This protects you and ensures there are no misunderstandings.
- Lease Tenants: If you’re in a lease agreement, rent should not increase during the lease term. If a landlord tries to raise your rent, check your lease to see if they’re allowed to do so. If not, you may want to discuss it with them.
Rent Increases and Discrimination
Landlords cannot raise rent for discriminatory reasons. For example, they cannot increase rent based on your race, religion, or if you have children. If you suspect discrimination, it’s important to gather any evidence you can.
Rent Increases and Security Deposits
If your rent increases, your landlord may also increase your security deposit. Many states allow landlords to raise the deposit in line with the new rent.
Can I Stop a Rent Increase?
While landlords have the right to raise rent, good tenants sometimes have a chance to negotiate the increase, especially if you explain that the higher rent will make you move. If you’re a long-term, reliable tenant, your landlord might consider keeping the rent the same to avoid losing you.