Rent Control and Stabilization Laws in Arkansas Explained

If you're renting in Arkansas and worried about rent increases or protections, it's important to understand how the law works in this state. Many renters across the country benefit from rent control or rent stabilization policies, but Arkansas takes a different approach. This article explains what you can expect as an Arkansas renter and what resources are available to help you.

What Is Rent Stabilization?

Rent stabilization (sometimes called rent control) refers to laws or rules that limit how much landlords can increase rent each year and offer extra protections to tenants against sudden, steep price jumps. These policies are common in some states, like New York or California, but are not universal.

Does Arkansas Have Rent Stabilization or Rent Control?

Arkansas does not have any statewide rent stabilization or rent control laws. There are no local cities or counties in Arkansas with rent control policies either. This means there is no legal limit on how much a landlord can increase your rent when your lease renews, as long as proper notice is provided according to state law.^[1]

Arkansas Law on Rent Increases

Under Arkansas law:

• Landlords can charge any amount for rent and increase it by any amount when a new lease is signed or renewed.
• There are no restrictions on how much or how often rent may be increased, provided the lease does not prohibit increases.
• For month-to-month tenants, landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase takes effect. For fixed-term leases, rent can only be changed at renewal unless the lease allows mid-term changes.^[2]

It's always a good idea to carefully review your rental agreement for any terms relating to rent adjustments, notice periods, or renewal procedures.

Required Notice for Rent Increases

If you do not have a fixed-term lease (such as year-to-year), Arkansas law requires that landlords give at least 30 days’ written notice before raising rent. The notice period may be different if your lease states something else. Official resources are available on the Arkansas Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Rights page.

Is There a Tribunal or Board for Rental Disputes?

Arkansas does not have a designated residential tenancy tribunal or rent board. Instead, disputes are generally handled in Arkansas District Courts or Small Claims Court.

Key Laws and Legislation

The main law governing rental agreements and eviction in Arkansas is the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 (Ark. Code Ann. §§ 18-17-101 et seq.). You can read about your rights directly in the Arkansas State Legislature records and the official resources linked here.^[1][2]

Are There Any Official Forms for Arkansas Renters?

Arkansas does not require any specific statewide rent control or stabilization forms because those programs do not exist in the state. However, renters may use the following forms for other tenancy issues:

• 30-Day Notice to Vacate (Form varies by county)
  Used when a tenant or landlord wishes to end a month-to-month agreement. For example, if you want to move out after a rent increase, you could give this notice to your landlord. Visit the Arkansas Courts Forms page for templates.
• Complaint for Unlawful Detainer (Eviction)
  If a landlord begins eviction for nonpayment or other grounds, this court form is used. Tenants can respond through the District Court if served such a notice, and guidance can be found at the official District Courts directory.

No official rent increase objection form exists due to the lack of rent regulation.

FAQ: Arkansas Rent Stabilization and Rent Increases

1. Does Arkansas have rent control or rent stabilization?
   No, Arkansas has no laws limiting rent increases or requiring rent stabilization. Landlords can generally set rent as they wish.
2. How much notice must a landlord give before raising rent?
   Landlords must provide at least 30 days' written notice for month-to-month tenancies. For lease renewals, check your lease terms.
3. Who handles rental disputes in Arkansas?
   Disputes are usually resolved in Arkansas District Courts, not a special tenancy tribunal.
4. Can I challenge a rent increase in Arkansas?
   There is no formal process to challenge rent increases unless it violates your current lease terms or you did not receive proper notice.
5. Where can renters find official forms or resources?
   Check the Arkansas Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Rights section or the Arkansas Courts Forms website.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Arkansas

• Arkansas does not have rent control or rent stabilization. Landlords may set rent freely.
• Landlords must provide 30 days’ notice for rent increases for month-to-month leases.
• There are no formal forms to contest rent increases, but lease and notice rules still apply.

Being informed about state laws and your lease terms is the best way to protect yourself as a renter in Arkansas.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Rights – Official state breakdown of tenant rights and resources.
• Arkansas District Courts – Find your local court for rental dispute filings.
• Center for Arkansas Legal Services – Housing Help – Free or low-cost legal advice for renters.
• USDA Rural Housing Service – Programs for rural renters and housing assistance.

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1. No Arkansas city or county enacts rent control. See Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 (Ark. Code Ann. §§ 18-17-101 et seq.).
2. Required rent increase notice: See Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007, § 18-17-704 and Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Rights.

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