Arkansas Rent Gouging Laws: What Every Renter Should Know

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Arkansas, you may be worried about sudden or steep rent increases. With housing costs rising, it's important to know what the law says about rent gouging and your rights as a tenant in Arkansas. This guide explains how Arkansas law handles rent increases, defines rent gouging, and provides trusted resources so you can protect yourself.

Understanding Rent Gouging in Arkansas

Unlike some states, Arkansas does not have statewide rent control or specific statutes that set limits on how much a landlord can increase rent. The term "rent gouging" is not defined in Arkansas law. However, it generally refers to landlords raising rent prices excessively, especially during emergencies or housing shortages.

• No statewide rent control: Landlords are typically free to set rent prices and increase them at lease renewal.
• No statutory cap on rent increases: Arkansas law does not limit how much or how often your landlord can raise your rent.
• Rent increases must follow lease terms and local ordinances, if any exist.

When Can a Landlord Raise the Rent?

Landlords in Arkansas must follow the notice requirements in your lease. If you have a month-to-month rental agreement, they generally must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing your rent.^[1]

• For a fixed-term lease (such as a 12-month lease), rent cannot be raised during the lease unless allowed by the agreement.
• For month-to-month rentals, a 30-day written notice is required before any rent increase takes effect.

Are There Exceptions for Emergencies?

Arkansas does not specifically prohibit "price gouging" during disasters or emergencies when it comes to residential rents. This means rent increases after events like tornadoes or floods are not regulated by state rent gouging laws. For official information, see the Arkansas Attorney General.

Legal Protections for Renters in Arkansas

While Arkansas law does not limit the amount or frequency of rent increases, renters are still protected by lease agreements and basic contract laws. Landlords must:

• Provide written notice of any rent increase (usually 30 days for month-to-month tenants)
• Follow lease terms for fixed-period leases
• Follow anti-discrimination laws, including the federal Fair Housing Act

Which Government Bodies Handle Tenant Complaints?

Arkansas does not have a specialized state housing tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes. Disputes are usually handled by your local district or circuit court. For information, visit the Arkansas Circuit Courts page.

Relevant Legislation for Arkansas Renters

• Arkansas Code Title 18, Chapter 17 - Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007^[2]
• Review your local city or county ordinances, as some cities may have additional tenant protections.

Forms Renters May Need

• "30-Day Notice of Rent Increase": While Arkansas does not have a standardized government form, landlords must deliver a written notice to the tenant. For renters, written responses or complaints can be submitted in local court on plain paper.
• Complaint/Petition Filing (no official form number): To challenge an unlawful rent increase or eviction, renters may file a petition in their local district court. Detailed instructions and clerk contacts are available on the Arkansas Circuit & District Courts website.
  • When used: If you believe a rent increase does not comply with your lease, was retaliatory, or you received improper notice, you can file a complaint.
  • How: Visit your local court, bring your documents, and ask the clerk for complaint filing procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there a legal limit to how much my landlord can raise the rent in Arkansas?
   No, Arkansas law does not set a limit on rent increases. Landlords must give at least 30 days’ notice for month-to-month agreements.
2. What should I do if I receive a large rent increase?
   Review your lease and check if the increase follows the required notice period. If not, contact local legal aid or your district court.
3. Are there any rent gouging protections in emergency situations?
   Arkansas does not have specific rent gouging laws during emergencies, so basic rent and notice laws still apply.
4. Who handles disputes about rent increases?
   Disputes are typically handled by local Arkansas district or circuit courts, not a dedicated board or tribunal.
5. Can my landlord increase rent in the middle of my lease?
   No, unless your lease specifically allows it. Otherwise, rent can only be raised at renewal.

Key Takeaways for Arkansas Renters

• There is no cap on rent increases in Arkansas, but landlords must provide proper notice.
• No statewide rent gouging law exists, even during emergencies.
• You can challenge improper increases in local courts if notice or lease terms aren’t followed.

While Arkansas renters have limited protections regarding rent gouging, understanding your lease and notice rights is essential to avoid surprises. Document everything and seek help if you believe your rights have been violated.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 (official statute text)
• Arkansas Circuit and District Court Information (find your court and file disputes)
• Arkansas Legal Services (free tenant legal advice and help)
• Arkansas Attorney General – Consumer Protection (complaint hotline)

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1. See Arkansas Code § 18-17-401: Notice to Terminate Tenancy.
2. Arkansas Code Title 18, Chapter 17 - Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007.

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