Understanding Pass-Through Rent Increases in Arkansas

If you rent in Arkansas, you may wonder whether your landlord can raise your rent—especially due to new costs like increased property taxes, repairs, or utilities. In many states, 'pass-through' costs allow landlords to increase rents to cover certain expenses. This guide breaks down how these increases work in Arkansas, your legal rights, and what to do if you face a rent hike.

What Are Pass-Through Costs?

'Pass-through' costs are charges that landlords might add to your rent to cover things like property tax hikes, major repairs, or higher utility costs. In some states, there are limits on how and when these costs can be passed on to tenants through rent increases. Let's see how things work in Arkansas.

Does Arkansas Have Rent Control or Rent Stabilization?

Arkansas does not currently have any statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws. This means:

• No legal cap on how much landlords can raise the rent (unless written restrictions are in your lease).
• Landlords do not need to prove increased costs to justify a rent hike.
• 'Pass-through' cost protections that exist in states with rent control do not apply in Arkansas.

However, landlords must still follow basic notice rules when increasing rent.

When Can Arkansas Landlords Raise the Rent?

While there are no rent caps, there are rules about when and how a landlord can raise your rent:

• For month-to-month tenants, landlords must provide at least one full rental period's notice (typically 30 days) before the change can take effect.
• For fixed-term leases (like a 12-month lease), rent cannot be increased until the current lease expires, unless your lease says otherwise.

Pass-Through Costs and Notices: What You Need to Know

Landlords in Arkansas can increase your rent for any reason, including to pass through increased costs, as long as they:

• Give proper notice in writing (usually 30 days for month-to-month agreements).
• Wait until your lease ends if you have a fixed-term lease, unless your lease includes an automatic increase clause.

Always check your lease—it may contain specific rules or requirements about notices and increases.

Official Forms and How to Respond

Unlike some other states, Arkansas does not have an official government form for rent increase notices. Landlords generally draft their own written notice.

If you receive a rent increase notice:

• Check the date—does it give at least one full rental period’s notice?
• Review your lease to see if increases are allowed during your lease term.
• If you have questions, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division via the official complaint form to ask about your rights.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Arkansas?

Unlike some states, Arkansas does not have a specialized housing board or tribunal. Disputes about rent or eviction typically go to your local Arkansas District Court. Tenants and landlords can file legal actions there if negotiation fails.

Relevant Arkansas Tenancy Legislation

All Arkansas rental agreements must comply with the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007. This legislation sets out rules for rent, notice, eviction procedures, and tenant rights.¹

FAQ: Pass-Through Costs, Rent Increases & Your Rights

1. Can my Arkansas landlord raise the rent to cover new expenses without notice?
   No. Your landlord must provide you with written notice—usually 30 days in advance for month-to-month leases—before any rent increase, including pass-through costs.
2. Are there any limits on rent increases in Arkansas?
   No, Arkansas law does not limit how much a landlord can raise rent unless your lease agreement states otherwise.
3. If I can’t afford the rent increase, what are my options?
   You can try to negotiate with your landlord for a smaller increase, seek rental assistance, or start looking for a new place. Always give notice if you plan to move.
4. What if my rent increase notice does not give enough time?
   You can politely inform your landlord that Arkansas law requires at least one rental period's notice. If the issue continues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office.
5. Is there a government form I should receive for rent increases?
   No, Arkansas does not provide an official rent increase form. Your landlord can write their own notice but it must be in writing.

Key Takeaways for Arkansas Renters

• There are no rent control laws in Arkansas; rent can be increased for any reason, including pass-through costs.
• Landlords must provide written notice (usually 30 days) before any rent increase takes effect.
• If you have questions or concerns, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Remember: reviewing your lease, keeping written notices, and knowing the laws will help you manage rent changes with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – File complaints or request information on landlord-tenant issues.
• Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 – Read the current tenant and landlord rights law.
• Arkansas Courts – Where you can file rental disputes if needed.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Arkansas Resources – Guide to rental assistance and rights.

---

1. The full text and recent updates are available at the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007.

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