Rent Increases: What Landlords Can and Can’t Do

 If you’ve ever received a surprise rent hike, you may have wondered whether it’s legal. The truth is, while landlords do have the right to raise rent, there are rules they must follow — and protections for tenants.

Lease vs. Month-to-Month:

• During a fixed-term lease (e.g., 1 year), rent cannot be raised unless the lease allows it.

• In a month-to-month tenancy, landlords can raise rent with proper written notice (usually 30 days).

How Much Can Rent Be Increased?

• In most states without rent control, there’s no cap on how much rent can be raised

• Cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles have rent stabilization laws that limit increases annually

Notice Requirements:

• Typically, landlords must give 30 to 60 days’ notice, depending on the size of the increase

• Notice must be in writing and delivered legally (email doesn’t always count)

Discriminatory or Retaliatory Increases Are Illegal:

• Rent increases cannot be based on race, gender, religion, or other protected categories

• It’s also illegal to raise rent as retaliation for filing complaints or joining a tenant union

What Tenants Can Do:

• Request a written explanation

• Negotiate the increase

• Report violations to local housing authority

• Move out after giving proper notice

Tenant Rights Every Renter Should Know

 Whether you're renting an apartment, house, or condo, understanding your tenant rights is crucial. U.S. housing laws offer important protections against unfair treatment, unsafe conditions, and unlawful eviction.

Your Right to a Habitable Home:
Landlords are required to:

• Maintain heating, plumbing, and electricity

• Address pest infestations

• Ensure building complies with health codes

Security Deposit Laws:

• Most states limit how much can be charged (typically 1-2 months’ rent)

• Landlords must return deposit within a specific time (often 30 days)

• Must provide itemized deductions if money is withheld

Protection Against Discrimination:

• Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, religion, disability, and more

• Landlords cannot refuse to rent or treat tenants differently based on protected characteristics

Eviction Rules:

• Must be based on legal grounds (nonpayment, lease violations)

• Requires proper written notice and court process

• “Self-help evictions” (changing locks, removing belongings) are illegal

Tips for Tenants:

• Always get lease agreements in writing

• Take photos when moving in/out

• Keep records of rent payments and maintenance requests