A tenant never welcomes increases in rent. And while many Montrose property managers aim to raise rates only occasionally and fairly, others will raise rents to unsustainable levels with little to no warning, leaving you with few alternatives. Renters may occasionally feel stifled and powerless as a result of competitive rental markets and a shortage of affordable housing.
So, what options do tenants have when faced with a rent increase? Do any guidelines exist that your landlord must abide by? How about the law’s position on rent increases? Gaining control over any rent increase requires first knowing the answers to these questions.
Is there any protocol regarding the amount a landlord may raise the rent?
Most states allow landlords to raise the rent at the conclusion of a lease by any amount as long as they give the required period of notice. However, several cities and states have rent control laws that regulate the amount and frequency of rent increases required by landlords. In California, for instance, a landlord is only authorized to raise the rent by a maximum of 10% plus any local rent control adjustments. Additionally, they must offer sufficient notice before the rent increase is due. Many other locations, including New York City, Oregon, Washington D.C., and parts of New Jersey, have some kind of rent control regulations.
What are the legal boundaries regarding raising the rent?
There isn’t currently a federal statute that controls rent hikes. Many tenants would perceive it as negative news, especially if you reside in an area where housing is already quite pricey. Yet, discriminatory or retaliatory rent increases are prohibited under federal fair housing laws. As a result, they are not permitted to raise the rent for a tenant based on their race, religion, gender, disability, or national origin. They are also not permitted to raise the rent as a result of your late payments.
What choices do renters who are facing an increase in rent 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. In some cases, a lease will include the minimum amount of notice required by a landlord for a rent increase as well as the maximum amount that can be raised. Your landlord is required to abide by the conditions of the lease contract because it is a legally binding agreement. In addition, it is recommended that you know your state landlord/tenant laws, as this topic is regularly discussed here.
A clear justification for increasing your rent may occasionally be required from your landlord. It’s possible that the landlord won’t be able to lawfully raise the rent if they can’t provide a good justification for it, including property renovations or market value changes.
If your lease is silent on the subject of rent increases, you may wish to negotiate with your landlord. This could involve making a longer lease agreement in exchange for keeping the rent at the present level or recommending different payment plans if the rise is too significant. 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.
Your alternatives may include looking for a new rental or subletting the space if the increase is lawful, negotiation doesn’t work, and you can’t pay the additional rent (make sure to check your lease to ensure this is allowable). Finding a roommate or subletting your apartment may be an excellent option to help you stay in your home, if your landlord is willing to allow it.
In addition to these alternatives, some renters feel wounded or outraged and wish to take action to oppose the rent rise. Such a response is natural, but it is not the best course of action. 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. Similarly to this, neglecting your obligation to keep the rental property tidy and in good condition will only end badly for you. 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.
Knowing your options and rights as a tenant in the event of a rent rise is crucial. To determine the appropriate course of action for your unique circumstance, it may also be good to seek legal counsel.
If you’re looking to rent a home that’s managed professionally and fairly, check out what Real Property Management Now 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.
