Alabama Rent Control Laws: 2025 Guide for Renters

If you rent your home in Alabama and are concerned about rent increases, it's important to know your rights. Both renters and landlords in Alabama need to be aware of current laws regulating rent amounts, increases, and tenant protections. This article provides an up-to-date overview of rent control laws in Alabama for 2025—explaining what is (and isn’t) regulated and what steps renters can take if facing unaffordable rent hikes.

Are There Rent Control or Rent Stabilization Laws in Alabama?

As of 2025, Alabama does not have any statewide or local rent control or rent stabilization laws. This means that, for almost all privately-owned rental properties, a landlord can set the rent and increase it by any amount, as long as they follow the proper notice procedures required under state law.

• There are no limits on how much or how often a landlord can raise your rent.
• Local cities and counties in Alabama are legally prohibited from creating their own rent control ordinances. Only state law governs landlord-tenant issues regarding rent increases.

What Notice Must a Landlord Give for a Rent Increase?

Under the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, a landlord must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent on a month-to-month tenancy.^[1] For leases with a defined term (such as one year), rent cannot increase during the lease period unless the lease agreement allows it.

• Month-to-Month: 30 days’ notice required for any rent change.
• Fixed-Term Lease: Rent cannot be raised before the lease ends, unless stated in your contract.

Which Agency Oversees Tenant and Landlord Disputes?

In Alabama, there is no specialized statewide housing board for landlord-tenant disputes. Instead, lawsuits and eviction cases are managed by the Alabama District Courts. Tenants can also contact the Alabama Office of the Attorney General, which offers guidance and consumer protection information.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Notice to Terminate Month-to-Month Lease (No Form Number)
  When to use: If you receive a rent increase you cannot afford, you may end your lease by serving written notice at least 30 days in advance. Simply provide your landlord with a signed and dated letter stating your intent to end the tenancy by a particular date.
  Example: You get a rent hike notice on June 15 for July 15. To move out, you must give your notice no later than July 1 to avoid penalties.
  Sample Notice Guidance from the Alabama AG
• Complaint for Unlawful Detainer (Eviction) – AOC-102A
  When to use: If your landlord files to remove you from your rental after you fail to pay increased rent, this is the form they file in District Court. Tenants may need to respond if served.
  Official Source: Alabama District Court Unlawful Detainer Form

Can My Rent Be Increased for Any Reason?

While Alabama law generally allows landlords to raise rent with proper notice, they cannot do so to discriminate against tenants or to retaliate (for example, because a tenant requested repairs or reported code issues). Discrimination based on race, sex, disability, family status, or other protected classes is prohibited by federal and state law.

How to Respond to a Rent Increase Notice

If you receive a notice of rent increase, here are your options:

• Accept the increase and pay the new amount.
• Negotiate with your landlord for a lower or phased-in increase.
• End your tenancy by giving proper written notice (see official forms section above).

Remember: Continuing to pay only the old rent after a valid rent increase notice may lead to eviction for nonpayment.

Frequently Asked Questions for Alabama Renters

1. Does Alabama have any rent control laws?
   No, Alabama law does not allow for rent control. Landlords may set and increase rent freely, following notice requirements.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give for a rent increase?
   You must receive at least 30 days’ written notice if you rent month-to-month.
3. Can a landlord raise rent during a fixed-term lease?
   Generally, rent cannot be raised during your lease period unless your written agreement specifically allows it.
4. What can I do if I can't afford my new rent?
   You can give 30 days’ written notice to move out, or try negotiating with your landlord before the new rent takes effect.
5. Is there any protection against unfair rent increases?
   While there’s no cap, increases cannot be retaliatory or discriminatory. You may file a complaint if you believe your rights are violated.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Alabama does not have rent control or rent stabilization laws in 2025.
• Landlords can raise rent with 30 days’ written notice (month-to-month tenants).
• Federal and state law protect renters from discrimination and retaliation.

It’s always best to keep open communication with your landlord and maintain written records of all notices and agreements.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alabama Office of the Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Rights
• Alabama District Courts Locator
• Alabama Consumer Complaint Form
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Alabama

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1. Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Ala. Code § 35-9A
2. Alabama Judicial System – District Courts
3. HUD – Alabama Fair Housing Information

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