A tenant never welcomes increases in rent. Additionally, while many Soddy Daisy property managers work to increase rent infrequently and fairly, other managers will do it abruptly and dramatically, leaving you with few viable options. Competitive rental markets and a shortage of affordable housing have contributed to the problem, causing renters to sometimes feel trapped and helpless.
So, what choices do tenants have when confronted with a rent increase? Are there regulations that your landlord must abide by? How about the law’s position on rent increases? The first step in handling any rent rise with comfort is to know the answers to these questions.
Is there any protocol regarding the amount a landlord may raise the rent?
In the majority of states, landlords may increase the rent at the end of a lease by any amount and with adequate notice. Nonetheless, certain towns and states have enacted rent control laws that restrict the amount and frequency of rent increases by landlords. In California, for instance, a landlord may raise the rent by no more than 10 percent plus any local rent control adjustments. 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 say regarding rent increases?
There is no federal statute that currently regulates rent hikes. Many tenants would perceive it as negative news, especially if you reside in an area where housing is already quite pricey. Nevertheless, federal fair housing laws bar landlords from discriminatory or retaliatory rent hikes. This means that they cannot increase the rent for a tenant based on their color, religion, gender, disability, or national origin, nor can they do so if you have made late payments.
What alternatives do tenants facing a rent rise have? Although the law may not restrict rent hikes, tenants have certain rights. To start, it’s crucial to review your lease or rental agreement to discover if there are any restrictions on rent increases. There may be provisions in a lease that specify how much notice a landlord must give and the maximum rent increase that may be made. Your landlord is required to abide by the conditions of the lease contract because it is a legally binding agreement. Understanding your state landlord-tenant laws is another smart practice; this topic is frequently covered here.
Occasionally, your landlord may be compelled to justify rent increases. If the landlord cannot provide a solid justification for the increase, such as property renovations or market value changes, they may not be able to legally increase the rent.
If your lease is silent on the subject of rent increases, you may wish to negotiate with your landlord. 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 there is no obligation on the part of the landlord to reach a compromise with you.
Another option, if you believe your rent increase is a violation of state or local law, the lease terms, or other stipulations, you can try filing a grievance with the local housing agency or the state. They may be able to examine the matter, mediate a resolution, or provide legal aid.
You could have to look for a new rental or sublet the space if the rent is increasing legally, negotiation doesn’t work, and you can’t afford it (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.
In addition to these possibilities, some tenants feel wounded or outraged and choose to protest the rent increase by taking action. While such a response is logical, it would be unwise to take it. For instance, it is not advised to refuse to pay rent because you are upset about a rent increase. After all, doing so may 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. You should always carefully consider your rights and alternatives before taking any action because violating any of the terms of your lease may have negative effects.
In case of a rent rise, it is crucial that you are aware of your rights and alternatives as a tenant. Finding the appropriate course of action for your particular situation may also be aided by consulting a legal expert.
If you’re looking to rent a home that’s managed professionally and fairly, check out what Real Property Management Your Home 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.
