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What to Know When Your Landlord Raises the Rent

An Official Notice of a Batesville Rental IncreaseFor a tenant, rent increases are never a good thing. And while some Batesville property managers will raise the rent infrequently, others will raise the rent at an increasingly escalating level and with little warning, thus leaving you with few good options. Competitive rental markets and a shortage of affordable housing have contributed to the problem, causing renters to sometimes feel trapped and helpless. 

What choices do tenants who are facing a rent rise have? Is your landlord required to follow certain rules? Moreover, what does the law say regarding rent increases? The first step in handling any rent rise with comfort is to know the answers to these questions. 

Are there any rules or regulations that limit the landlord as to how much he can raise the tent? 

In the majority of states, landlords can increase the rent by any amount at the completion of a lease, so long as they provide the required notice. The amount and frequency to which a landlord may raise the rent are nevertheless restricted by rent control laws in several cities and states. For example, in California, a landlord may increase the rent by 10% plus any local rent control adjustments and no more. Additionally, they must give reasonable notification before the additional rent is due. New York City, Oregon, Washington D.C., and parts of New Jersey are only some of the many places that have enacted some form of rent control regulations

What does the law declare about rent increases? 

Rent increases are not currently governed by federal law. Many tenants might feel discouraged by it, especially if they reside in an area where rent is already prohibitively high. However, landlords are not allowed to increase the rent in a discriminatory or retaliatory way under federal fair housing laws. This means that they cannot increase the rent for a tenant based on their race, disability, religion, gender, or national origin, nor can they boost the rent if you have been late with your payments. 

What options are available to tenants facing a rent increase? Even if the law would not forbid rent increases, as a tenant you still have some rights. First, check your lease or rental agreement to discover if there are any provisions regarding rent hikes. It’s not uncommon for a lease to include the maximum rent increase that a landlord may impose as well as the length of advance notice required. Your landlord is required to abide by the provisions of the lease because it is a legally enforceable document. Understanding your state landlord/tenant laws is also recommended; this topic is frequently covered here. 

Occasionally, your landlord may be required to provide an explanation for a rent increase. It may not be permissible for the landlord to raise the rent if they can’t provide a solid justification for it, such as property renovations or market value changes. 

Try negotiating with your landlord if your lease doesn’t address rent increases. This could be offering to sign a longer lease in exchange for maintaining the present rent amount or recommending alternative payment choices if the increase is excessive. But keep in mind that the landlord is not required to bargain with you. 

On the other hand, you could attempt to file a complaint with your state or local housing agency if you believe your landlord’s rent increase violates state or local law, your lease terms, or similar restrictions. They might be able to look into the matter, assist in mediating a settlement, or offer legal support. 

Finding a new rental or subletting the space may be your alternative if the rent increase is legal, negotiation doesn’t work, and you can’t pay the higher rate (make sure to check your lease to ensure this is allowable). If your landlord is amenable, finding a roommate or subleasing your apartment may be a viable option for you to remain in your home. 

Some tenants may feel offended or upset and desire to take action to oppose the rent increase in addition to these possibilities. Though such a reaction is normal, it is not advisable. It’s also not a good idea, for instance, to withhold rent out of resentment over a rent increase because that could result in eviction proceedings. In a similar vein, neglecting your obligation to keep the rental property tidy and in good working order won’t help anyone. It is crucial to keep in mind that breaking the conditions of your lease can have consequences, so be cautious to investigate your legal rights and available options before making any decisions. 

It is important to understand your options and rights in the event of a rent hike. Finding the appropriate course of action for your unique case may also benefit from seeking legal counsel. 

 

If you’re looking to rent a home that’s managed professionally and fairly, check out what Real Property Management Delta has to offer. You can call our office or view our listings online.                 

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.

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