Alaska Rent Control Laws: What Renters Need to Know (2025)

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Alaska, understanding your rights about rent increases is essential. Many renters worry about sudden hikes in rent or wonder if there are protections like rent control. This guide walks you through Alaska’s current approach to rent control and what practical steps you can take if you’re facing an increase.

Is There Rent Control in Alaska?

As of 2025, Alaska does not have a statewide rent control or rent stabilization law. This means that, in most parts of Alaska, landlords can set and raise rent amounts as they see fit, so long as they provide proper notice to the tenant.

Alaska law does not give local cities the authority to impose rent control ordinances either. Rent control and rent stabilization—laws that limit how much a landlord may increase rent—are not available anywhere in Alaska, whether you live in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, or a smaller community.¹

What the Alaska Landlord & Tenant Act Says About Rent Increases

Even without rent control, Alaska law sets some requirements for rent increases:

• Required notice: Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent for most tenancies.
• Lease types: For month-to-month rentals, rent can be raised with the required notice. For fixed-term leases, rent generally cannot be raised until the lease expires and is renewed.
• No retaliation: Landlords cannot raise rent to retaliate against a tenant for exercising their legal rights (such as complaining about repairs).

These rules are set out in the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act (AS 34.03).²

How to Respond to a Rent Increase in Alaska

If you receive a rent increase notice, here’s what you should do:

• Check the notice: Ensure the landlord provided at least 30 days’ advance written notice for a month-to-month agreement.
• Read your rental agreement: Confirm whether you’re on a month-to-month or fixed-term lease and see if other terms apply.
• Communicate with your landlord: If you need more time or have concerns, discuss them promptly and in writing.
• Know your rights: If you suspect retaliation or unlawful practices, you have the right to proceed accordingly (see "Filing a Complaint" below).

Official Forms and How to Use Them

While there are no specific Alaska rent increase challenge forms, certain notices and forms may impact rent disputes or tenancy status:

• Notice to Quit (Eviction Notice): Alaska Court System - Eviction Forms. Used if a landlord seeks to evict you (for instance, if you don't pay rent after an increase). Always check your notice for correctness and timeline.
• Complaint Filing: Renters can file a civil complaint at the Alaska District Court if there is a dispute about notice or retaliation. The form to initiate is the CIV-100: Complaint Form. Example: A renter files this if their rent was increased in retaliation for making a repair request.

There is currently no dedicated form to challenge a lawful rent increase, but these forms may be relevant in cases of improper notice, eviction, or retaliation.

Who Oversees Alaska Landlord-Tenant Disputes?

Alaska does not have a specialized housing tribunal or board. Disputes are handled by the Alaska Court System – Civil Division (for landlord-tenant cases and eviction).

Relevant Legislation

• Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act (AS 34.03)

FAQ: Alaska Renters & Rent Increases

1. Does Alaska have any rent control or rent caps?
   No, Alaska does not have rent control or any limit on how much a landlord can increase rent, provided proper notice is given.
   
2. How much notice does my landlord need to raise the rent?
   Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent on a month-to-month lease.
   
3. Can I challenge a rent increase if I think it’s unfair?
   You cannot challenge a rent increase solely for being “too high.” However, you may have recourse if the increase is retaliatory or if the notice process isn’t followed.
   
4. Is there an agency I can contact for help with rent increases?
   While there is no rent control board, you may get assistance from Alaska Legal Services or the Alaska Court System.
   
5. What if I am evicted after refusing a rent increase?
   If your landlord follows the proper eviction process and notice rules, a refusal to pay increased rent can lead to eviction. Always seek legal help promptly.
   

Key Takeaways for Alaska Renters

• Alaska has no rent control—rent can be raised with proper notice.
• Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice for increases on month-to-month leases.
• Retaliatory rent increases are prohibited, and renters can take legal action if they believe their rights are being violated.

Knowing these basics can help you stay prepared and informed in Alaska’s rental market.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alaska Court System Housing Self-Help Center: Information on landlord-tenant issues and court processes
• Alaska Legal Services Corporation: Free legal help for eligible tenants
• Alaska Landlord & Tenant Act – Full Text

---

1. Alaska Department of Law, Consumer Protection – Landlord / Tenant Resources: Landlord/Tenant Information
2. See Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act (AS 34.03)

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