Are There Local Rent Control Ordinances in Alabama?

For renters in Alabama, concerns about rent increases and the possibility of rent regulation are common—especially as prices change from year to year. Understanding whether local cities have rent caps, rent control, or rent stabilization is important for protecting your housing stability in Alabama.

Does Alabama Have Rent Control or Rent Caps?

As of this year, no city in Alabama has local rent control or rent stabilization laws. In fact, Alabama state law specifically prohibits any city or county from creating their own rent control rules. This means:

• There are no legal restrictions on how much a landlord can raise your rent, except for the terms in your lease agreement.
• Rent increases must follow the terms spelled out in your lease, and typically cannot occur during a fixed lease period unless you agree.
• Alabama cities—including Birmingham, Montgomery, Huntsville, and Mobile—cannot enact local rent control ordinances.

This law is set by the Alabama Code and impacts all residential rental properties across the state.^[1]

What Alabama Law Says About Rent Control

The state law on rent control is found in the Alabama Code § 11-80-30. It states that no city or county in Alabama can adopt, maintain, or enforce any ordinance or rule controlling the amount of rent charged for private residential or commercial property.^[2]

Your Rights Regarding Rent Increases in Alabama

Even though there are no rent caps, Alabama law requires that:

• Landlords must give proper notice before increasing rent—usually 30 days for month-to-month agreements or as specified in your lease.
• During a fixed-term lease, rent cannot increase until the lease expires (unless both parties agree in writing).
• All changes must be in writing, and you should keep a copy for your records.

The Main Tenancy Law in Alabama

Your rights as a renter are protected under the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 35, Chapter 9A). This act covers important topics like lease renewals, eviction procedures, maintenance, and written notice requirements.^[3]

Can a City in Alabama Pass Its Own Rent Cap or Ordinance?

No. According to Alabama Code § 11-80-30, local governments do not have authority to regulate rent amounts. This means even if a city council wants to set a local rent cap, they are not allowed by state law.

What To Do If You Face an Unexpected Rent Increase

While Alabama does not have forms for contesting a rent increase (since rent amounts are not regulated), you still have options if you believe your rights are not being respected:

• Review your lease to confirm notice and timing of the increase
• Request written notice if you have only received verbal communication
• Contact the Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division if you feel your landlord is acting unlawfully
• Seek guidance from legal aid or renter advocacy organizations

Related Official Forms and Their Use

• Notice of Rent Increase (No Statewide Form): Alabama does not provide an official statewide form for rent increase notices, but landlords are generally required to notify tenants in writing, as defined by your lease agreement.
  Renter Example: If your landlord wants to raise rent at the end of your lease, they must give written notice—often 30 days for a month-to-month tenancy.
  See lease and notice requirements in the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: §35-9A-161.
• Complaint to Alabama Attorney General - Consumer Protection Division: If you have issues with a landlord that may be illegal (such as discrimination or illegal eviction), you can file a complaint.
  Renter Example: If your landlord increases rent mid-lease in violation of your agreement, you could file a complaint here.
  Access the form and instructions on the Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint Portal.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Alabama?

In Alabama, most landlord-tenant disputes—including those about rent or eviction—are handled by local district or small claims courts. There is no separate housing tribunal, but tenants can seek help in court if needed. Learn about available courts and forms at the Alabama Judicial System Forms Library.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does any city in Alabama have rent control or a rent cap?
   No. Alabama law does not allow any city or county to adopt rent control or set local rent caps.
2. How much can a landlord raise rent in Alabama?
   There is no limit, but any increase must comply with your lease terms and you must receive written notice.
3. Can my rent increase during my lease?
   Not without your written agreement. Increases typically only apply at lease renewal or in month-to-month tenancies after notice.
4. Where can I file a complaint about an unfair rent increase?
   Contact the Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division if you suspect unlawful practices, or seek legal aid support.
5. Does Alabama provide an official rent increase notice form?
   No, but landlords must provide written notice according to your lease. Make sure to keep all notices for your records.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters in Alabama

• There are no local or statewide rent control laws or caps on rent in Alabama.
• Landlords must give written notice of rent increases in line with your lease terms.
• Legal help is available if you experience a rent dispute or think your rights are violated.

It’s always best to stay informed and keep documentation of all communications with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – For filing complaints or inquiries about landlord-tenant issues.
• Alabama Judicial System – Find your local district or small claims court for rental disputes.
• Legal Services Alabama – Free legal aid and advice for qualifying tenants.
• Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Full text of the state’s main renter protection law.

---

1. See Alabama Code on preemption of rent control: Alabama Code § 11-80-30
2. Explanation of rental regulation limits in Alabama: Official Alabama Rent Control Statute
3. Current tenancy law: Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations