Can a Landlord Raise Rent During a Lease in Alabama?

Rent increases can cause stress and uncertainty for tenants, especially if they arrive unexpectedly. If you're renting a home or apartment in Alabama, it's important to understand your legal rights about rent hikes while your lease is active. This guide explains whether landlords can raise rent mid-lease in Alabama, what the law says, and the proper process for any rent changes.

Are Mid-Lease Rent Increases Legal in Alabama?

In Alabama, your rights as a renter depend on the type of lease agreement you signed with your landlord. The Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protects both tenants and landlords by setting the basic rules for what can and cannot happen during your rental period.^[1]

• Fixed-Term Lease (e.g., 12-month lease): If you have a lease for a set period, your rent amount is locked in until the lease ends. The landlord cannot legally increase rent during this period unless your lease specifically includes a clause allowing for mid-lease rent increases.
• Month-to-Month Lease: If there is no fixed end date or you rent month-to-month, the landlord may raise your rent—but only after providing at least 30 days’ written notice.

What Should Be in a Rent Increase Notice?

For month-to-month tenancies, Alabama law requires landlords to give tenants at least 30 days’ advance written notice before increasing rent. The notice should clearly state:

• The new rent amount
• The date the increase will begin
• Contact information for questions

If your lease is fixed-term and you receive a rent increase notice before your lease ends—unless allowed by your written agreement—you may be able to challenge it. Always review your lease for any provisions about rent changes.

What to Do if You Receive a Mid-Lease Rent Increase

If you receive a notice of rent increase during your fixed-term lease, consider these steps:

• Review Your Lease: Check for any clauses about rent increases. If none exist, the increase may not be valid.
• Communicate With Your Landlord: Calmly discuss the notice and ask for clarification if needed.
• If you feel the increase is unlawful, you may file a complaint or seek advice from the Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Office.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• 30-Day Notice of Rent Increase (No Official State Form): Landlords typically provide a simple written letter. If you disagree, respond in writing, keeping a copy for your records.
• Complaint Form – Alabama Attorney General's Office: If you believe your landlord is acting unlawfully, use the Consumer Complaint Form (downloadable PDF). Example: You receive a mid-lease rent hike and want to notify the state.

For disputes over rent increases or other rental issues, the Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Office is the main avenue for seeking help, since Alabama does not have a dedicated landlord–tenant tribunal. For further action, matters may be taken to your local district court.

What Alabama Law Says About Rent Increases

The rules for rental agreements, including rent increases, are found in the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AURLTA). Key sections include:

• Section 35-9A-163: Outlines the notice required for rent increases in periodic (month-to-month) tenancies.
• Section 35-9A-161: Covers rental agreement basics and renewal terms.

Read more on the official state code for the most current housing regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord raise the rent during my one-year lease in Alabama?
   Generally, no. Landlords cannot increase rent during a fixed-term lease unless your lease specifically allows it.
2. How much notice must my landlord give to raise the rent if I'm renting month-to-month?
   Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ advance written notice before any rent increase takes effect.
3. Is there a limit to how much my landlord can raise the rent?
   No, Alabama law does not set a maximum amount for rent increases. However, landlords must follow the proper notice procedures.
4. Who do I contact if I think a rent increase is illegal?
   You may contact the Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Office for assistance or file a complaint.
5. Do I have to accept a rent increase if I disagree?
   If you are on a fixed-term lease and the increase is not permitted by your lease, you are not required to accept it. For month-to-month leases, you may choose to move out instead of accepting the new rent.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Alabama

• Landlords cannot raise rent mid-lease unless your agreement allows it.
• Month-to-month renters must get at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase.
• Know your lease terms and keep records of all communications and notices.

Understanding your lease and state law is the best way to protect yourself against surprise rent hikes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Office – File complaints or ask for guidance on rental issues.
• Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Read the official housing law in Alabama.
• Your local Alabama District Court – For legal disputes related to rental agreements.

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1. Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Sections 35-9A-161, 35-9A-163.
2. Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection – Rental Issues

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