Writing a Rent Increase Notice: A Guide

It’s no secret that living costs are often on the rise. As an independent landlord or property manager, you need to find ways to keep up with the times. But how do you do this? By writing a rent increase notice! The task of crafting a rent increase notice can seem daunting, but following this guide you’ll have all the tools necessary to draft a thorough document.

What Is a Rent Increase Notice?

A rent increase notice is an official document that a landlord or property manager must give to their tenants before increasing the amount of rent they currently pay. It is important to note that not all states require a landlord to notify their tenants prior to increasing the amount they pay, so make sure you check your state laws before sending your notice.

What Information Must Be Included in the Notice?

In order to ensure your rent increase notice meets legal standards, you must include the following key pieces of information:

• Your name, address, and contact information
• Your tenant’s name and address
• The amount of the rent increase
• The date that the increase becomes effective
• Any supporting documentation for the increase, such as current market rental rates
• An explanation for the increase, if applicable

When Should You Send the Notice?

After you confirm that your rent increase notice meets all state legal requirements, you will need to determine when to send it to your tenant. This will depend on the length of the rental agreement or the terms of the agreement. Most generally, you should give your tenant at least two months’ notice before the increase goes into effect.

How Should You Deliver the Notice?

In order to ensure that your tenant receives the notice, you should deliver it via certified mail, email, or even personally hand it to them. This will not only enable you to track the delivery of the notice but will also prove that you provided the notice to the tenant, should it ever become necessary.

What Do You Do if Your Tenant Objects?

If your tenant objects to the rent increase that is outlined in the notice, there are some steps you can take. First, explain the reasoning behind the increase in detail. Depending on the state, you may be able to legally increase the rent due to rising costs related to managing the property or inflation.

Tips for Writing a Rent Increase Notice

Writing a rent increase notice may seem intimidating, but it’s not complicated. With a few helpful tips and a template, you can craft a document that will protect your rights as an independent landlord or property manager.

Get your facts right

If you are citing a certain amount for the increase, make sure it is factually accurate. There is nothing worse than sending a notice with an incorrect amount!

Proofread and edit

Make sure that your notice is free from errors when you send it by taking the time to proofread and edit the document.

Craft a professional tone

It is important that your tone remains professional throughout the document. Avoid making assumptions or expressing your opinion, as doing so may weaken your legal standing.

Avoid making assumptions

As we mentioned above, it is important to avoid making assumptions. Make sure that your notice is factually accurate and focus on the facts only.

Check your state laws

This cannot be stressed enough! Before sending your notice, make sure that you thoroughly read and understand your state laws regarding rent increases.

Review your contract

Your rental agreement should outline all of the terms that both parties agree to. That being said, if there is a discrepancy between your state laws and the terms of your agreement, the state laws should take precedence.

Be specific

When crafting your notice, make sure you are as specific as possible. This will give your tenant detailed information on the increase and will help them make an informed decision

Conclusion

Writing a rent increase notice may seem like a daunting task, but by following the guidelines outlined in this guide you can craft a document that is not only legally compliant but also concise and clear. Make sure you get all the facts straight, review your laws and rental agreement, and be sure to keep your tone professional. Writing a rent increase notice doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated; just use this guide and you’ll be on your way in no time!

How often can you increase rent for a tenant?

The frequency with which landlords can legally increase rent varies depending on the location and type of tenancy. Generally speaking, most state and local jurisdictions only permit landlords to increase rent at the end of a lease period. However, if a tenancy lasts for more than one year, landlords may be able to increase the rent at the end of each year or at other specified intervals. It is important to review your local laws regarding rent increases to make sure you are compliant.

What are the rules for rent increases in my state?

Rent increases vary by state and even by local jurisdiction. Therefore, it is best to contact your local or state housing authority to obtain specific information on rent increases. Generally, however, landlords are required to give written notice of rent increases and they may not be more frequent than once a year. Additionally, some states have limits in place on the amount that a rent increase can be each year.