Rent increases are pretty much unavoidable. While they’re unpleasant for tenants, they’re necessary for landlords who must pay for the rising maintenance costs, taxes, and utilities. So, if you’re facing a rent increase, there are a few things to remember. First, know when your landlord is allowed to increase rates. Additionally, learn how to negotiate if you’re uncomfortable with the new rate you’re given. Today, we’ll review a few tips to help you find a happy medium.
Contents of This Article:
- How Often Can Your Landlord Increase Rent?
- What to Do If You’re Facing a Rent Increase
- Tips for Negotiating Your Rent Increase
- Ask Your BMG Property Managers for Help
How Often Can Your Landlord Increase Rent?
Washington, DC, property managers know that rent increases are essential to the rental process. That said, when it comes to how often your landlord can increase rent, there are several factors to consider. For instance, it depends on your lease type, state and local laws, and any rent control ordinances in your area.
In areas without rent control, landlords can generally raise rent once the lease term ends or during a month-to-month agreement. However, they must follow the proper notice requirements. For fixed-term leases, landlords must wait until the lease is renewed to increase rent, and for mont-to-month agreements, landlords must give 30 to 90 days’ notice, depending on state laws.
If you’re in an area with rent control laws, like New York, Los Angeles, or Washington, DC, your landlord is limited to the amount and frequency of rent increases. Typically, increases are restricted to an annual adjustment tied to inflation or a set percentage.
What to Do If You’re Facing a Rent Increase
Facing a rent increase can be stressful, especially if you weren’t expecting it. So, what can you do about it as a tenant? Here are a few tips to consider.
- Understand Your Rights
- Verify That It Makes Sense
- Consider Negotiating With Your Landlord
- Look At Alternative Housing Options
- Take Action If Necessary
Understand Your Rights
If your landlord approaches you about a rent increase, the first thing you’ll want to do is review your lease and understand your rights. Your lease should have terms regarding rent increases, notice periods, and limits. Additionally, research local laws. Find out if there are any rent control or tenant protection laws in your area regarding increases and determine whether or not the increase is lawful.
Verify That It Makes Sense
Generally, your landlord can’t raise rent an unreasonable amount. Additionally, depending on local laws, they’re usually required to give at least 30 days’ notice. If the increase doesn’t make sense and it’s sprung on you without notice, it may not be legally enforceable. With that, you’ll also want to compare the rates they give you with similar properties in your area to ensure they align with market conditions.
Consider Negotiating With Your Landlord
Some landlords are more flexible than others, and you may be able to negotiate a smaller increase. During your negotiation, make sure you highlight your payment history to show that you’re consistently on time. You can also offer to sign a longer lease in exchange for a smaller increase. If your landlord isn’t willing to budge on the increase, you could request property upgrades or amenities that align with the higher rent price.
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Look At Alternative Housing Options
If the increase your landlord wants to implement makes your rent unaffordable, it may be time to search for a new rental situation. Now, you have a few options. You could start looking for more affordable rental units, or you could search for roommates to share your space with who will contribute to the monthly rent.
Take Action If Necessary
If you’re facing a rent increase that seems unlawful, discriminatory, or retaliatory, you’ll want to consult a professional to help you sort it out. Whether you speak with an attorney specializing in rental issues or report the violation to your local housing authority, make sure you take proper action.
Tips for Negotiating Your Rent Increase
If you think that your rent increase is unfair or you’re not comfortable with your new rental rate, you can always try to negotiate with your landlord. After all, if you don’t say anything at all, you’ll have to pay the higher rate, even if you’re upset about it. So, here are some tips to help you negotiate when facing a rent increase.
- Do Your Research- Before asking your landlord to lower the rent, research similar rentals in your area. After all, if you don’t know the average rate for comparable properties, you don’t have much justification for your request. However, if you’re paying more, you can bring that information to your landlord.
- Schedule a Time to Talk In Person– You don’t want to surprise your landlord with your negotiating request. It’s best to schedule a time to talk with them in person. That way, you can both get your points across more easily.
- Be Open to Compromise- When negotiating your rent, stay confident yet respectful. Now is not the time to get aggressive with your landlord. You’ll want to stay open to counteroffers and consider your landlord’s perspective, not only your own.
- Follow Up in Writing- Once you agree on a new rate, get it in writing. While verbal agreements are legal, they’re hard to dispute if there are any discrepancies in the rent price. So, ask your landlord to update your lease with the agreed-upon rate.
- Have a Backup Plan- It’s important to have a backup plan if your landlord rejects your rate. If you plan on moving, you’ll want to have another rental lined up. However, if you’re willing to stay at the adjusted rate, you may want to negotiate other things like utilities or amenities.
Ask Your BMG Property Managers For Help
Are you facing a rent increase that you find unfair? Don’t hesitate to talk to your landlord or BMG property manager about your concerns. Our team of dedicated property management professionals is here to help you find your ideal rental experience.
On the other hand, if you’re a rental owner and need help setting fair rental prices, we’ve got you covered! Bay Property Management Group offers comprehensive rental management services, from marketing and tenant screening to inspections and maintenance. Contact us today to learn more about our services throughout Baltimore, Philadelphia, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC.
