Delaware Rent Prices and Caps: Renter’s 2025 Guide

Renting in Delaware in 2025? Understanding current rent prices, security deposit laws, and whether there are rent caps can help you make informed decisions. This guide uses Delaware’s official laws and agencies to provide clear information for tenants, including action steps and trustworthy resources.

Delaware’s Average Rent Prices in 2025

As of early 2025, the average rent in Delaware varies based on location, size, and amenities. Statewide, typical monthly rents are:

• 1-bedroom apartment: $1,200–$1,400
• 2-bedroom apartment: $1,400–$1,600
• 3-bedroom home: $1,700–$2,000

Wilmington and beach communities often see higher rents. Make sure to check local listings, and compare them to these averages when negotiating or renewing your lease.

Are There Rent Caps or Rent Control in Delaware?

Delaware does not currently have statewide rent control. This means landlords can set rent without a cap, but they must still follow legal rules about lease renewals and rent increase notice periods.

• Notice for rent increases: Landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice before increasing rent for most residential leases (see the Delaware Landlord-Tenant Code Section 5107).
• Discrimination is illegal: Landlords cannot increase rent to discriminate based on race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics, per state and federal law.

Steps If You Receive a Rent Increase

If you get a notice of rent increase:

• Review the notice for a clear statement of the new rent and the date it starts.
• Confirm that the landlord gave at least 60 days’ written notice.
• If the increase does not follow legal requirements, contact the Delaware Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit.

Having clear, written communication is vital when responding to a potential dispute. Delaware does not have a rent cap, but landlords must always provide proper notice.

Security Deposit Limits and Return Rules in Delaware

Security deposits in Delaware are regulated to protect both renters and landlords. Here’s what you need to know:

• Maximum deposit: Landlords can charge up to the equivalent of one month’s rent for a year-long lease (Delaware Landlord-Tenant Code Section 5514).
• Deposit return: The deposit must be returned within 20 days of lease termination, minus any legitimate deductions for unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear.
• Written notice: If any part of the deposit is withheld, the landlord must provide an itemized written list of the deductions.

Official Delaware Landlord-Tenant Forms

• Security Deposit Dispute/Small Claims Complaint (CC-123):
  

  Use this form if your landlord fails to return your deposit or you disagree with deductions. File with the Justice of the Peace Court in your county.

  View and download Delaware Justice of the Peace Court forms
• Landlord-Tenant Complaint (Form CF01):
  

  Tenants may use this to address many disputes, including improper rent increases, lease violations, or unresolved maintenance issues.

  Official Justice of the Peace Court tenant forms

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Delaware?

Delaware rental housing disputes are handled by the Justice of the Peace Court. This is Delaware’s official residential tenancy tribunal. Most disputes over eviction, security deposits, or rent increases must be filed here.

Delaware Tenancy Laws and Your Rights

All renters and landlords in Delaware must follow the Delaware Landlord-Tenant Code. Key protections include:

• Required written notice before any rent increase or eviction
• Limits on the amount and handling of security deposits
• Rules ensuring habitable rental conditions

You can learn more or review the law yourself at the official Delaware Tenancy Code website.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Delaware have rent control in 2025?
   No. Delaware does not have statewide rent control. However, proper notice must still be given for rent increases, usually 60 days in advance.
2. How much can my landlord charge for a security deposit?
   For a year-long lease, your landlord can charge up to one month’s rent as a security deposit.
3. How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
   Delaware law requires that your security deposit be returned within 20 days after you move out, minus proper deductions.
4. Where can I get official forms to file a rent or deposit complaint?
   Official forms are available on the Justice of the Peace Court tenant forms page.
5. Which court handles Delaware housing disputes?
   The Justice of the Peace Court is Delaware’s tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes.

Key Takeaways for Delaware Renters in 2025

• No statewide rent control, but landlords must provide 60 days’ written notice for rent increases.
• Security deposits for year-long leases are capped at one month’s rent and must be returned within 20 days of move-out.
• For most disputes, file with the Justice of the Peace Court using their official forms.

Staying informed and documenting every step can make resolving rental issues much simpler.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Delaware Attorney General – Landlord Tenant Unit: Get information or file complaints about rental issues.
• Justice of the Peace Court: Delaware's official residential tenancy tribunal for disputes and filings.
• Delaware Landlord-Tenant Code: Complete legislation protecting tenant rights.
• Delaware State Housing Authority: Rental assistance and housing resources in Delaware.

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1. Delaware Landlord-Tenant Code (Title 25, Chapter 51 and 53)
2. Justice of the Peace Court – Landlord Tenant
3. Delaware Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Unit
4. Delaware State Housing Authority

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