Can Arkansas Landlords Raise Rent During a Lease?

If you're renting in Arkansas, you may worry about sudden rent increases—especially if your landlord tries to raise your rent before your lease ends. Understanding the law is crucial to protect your rights and know what action you can take.

What Does Arkansas Law Say About Mid-Lease Rent Increases?

In Arkansas, landlord-tenant relationships are governed by the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17-101 et seq.)[1]. According to this legislation, landlords generally cannot increase rent during the term of a fixed-term lease (for example, a 12-month rental agreement), unless the lease itself specifically allows it.

• Fixed-term lease: Rent amount stays the same until the lease ends, unless the contract states otherwise.
• Month-to-month or periodic tenancy: Landlords can increase rent with at least 30 days' written notice before the next rental period starts.

Always review your lease agreement carefully. If it says rent can be increased mid-lease or "at the landlord’s discretion," such terms may apply, but these must be clearly stated.

How Does the Notice Period Work?

If you have a month-to-month rental or other periodic agreement, Arkansas law requires landlords to give you at least a 30-day written notice before a rent increase takes effect. This notice must be delivered before the new rental period begins. For fixed-term leases, however, rent cannot be changed before the lease expires unless the lease itself allows for mid-lease increases.

What Should You Do If Your Landlord Tries to Raise Rent Mid-Lease?

If your landlord attempts a mid-lease rent increase and it's not allowed in your lease, you have the right to dispute it. Here are some action steps you can take:

• Review your lease thoroughly for any language about rent increases.
• Send a written response to your landlord, referencing the Arkansas Landlord-Tenant Act and your lease agreement.
• Keep copies of all communications in case you need to provide documentation.
• If the issue is not resolved, consider contacting legal aid or the relevant tribunal.

What Official Forms and Government Resources Are Available?

Currently, Arkansas does not have state-issued forms specifically for disputing mid-lease rent increases or reporting this issue. However, renters can use general complaint or court filing procedures if a dispute escalates.

• Arkansas Small Claims Court Filing Forms:
  • Small Claims Complaint Form – Used to file a claim against a landlord if financial loss occurs due to an illegal rent increase.
• Notice of Rental Increase (Model Form):
  • No official state form, but sample notices and procedures can be found at the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service.

Example: If you receive a notice that your rent will increase mid-lease, and your agreement doesn't allow it, you may write a letter to your landlord using language from the Arkansas Landlord-Tenant Act and, if necessary, submit a claim at District Court using the Small Claims form linked above.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Arkansas?

Arkansas does not have a dedicated statewide residential tenancy tribunal or board. Instead, rental disputes are typically addressed by the Arkansas District Courts (Small Claims Division). These courts handle landlord-tenant issues, including improper rent increases, security deposits, and evictions.

If your landlord issues a rent increase mid-lease without clear lease permission, you are not required to pay the additional amount and may seek legal support if pressured.

FAQ: Arkansas Rent Increase Rules for Renters

1. Can my landlord in Arkansas raise the rent before my lease term is over?
   If you have a fixed-term lease (such as for 12 months), your landlord cannot increase the rent during that period unless your lease states otherwise.
2. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   For a month-to-month rental, your landlord is required to give you at least 30 days' written notice before the increase takes effect.
3. What should I do if I get a mid-lease rent increase notice?
   Review your lease for any clauses about rent changes, respond in writing, and contact your local District Court if the issue isn't resolved.
4. Is there an official form for disputing a rent increase in Arkansas?
   There is no specific form, but you can use the Small Claims Complaint Form if needed to file in court.
5. Where can I get help with a landlord dispute in Arkansas?
   Contact your local District Court or the Arkansas Legal Services for tenant advice.

Key Takeaways for Arkansas Renters

• Landlords in Arkansas may not raise rent during a fixed-term lease unless it’s stated in the lease.
• Month-to-month renters must receive at least 30 days’ advance written notice of any rent increase.
• Disputes can be addressed through District Court's Small Claims Division if not resolved directly with your landlord.

Always read your lease carefully and seek support if you suspect your landlord is violating rental laws.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas District Courts (Small Claims Division) – Handles rental disputes.
• Legal Aid of Arkansas – Provides free legal information and tenant support.
• UA Division of Agriculture – Renting Resources – Renter guides and rights.
• Arkansas Attorney General Consumer Protection – General complaints and assistance for renters.

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1. [1] Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17-101 et seq.)
2. Arkansas District Courts – Small Claims Division
3. University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service - Renter Responsibilities

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