Indiana Rules for Mid-Lease Rent Increases Explained

If you're renting a home or apartment in Indiana, understanding your rights about rent increases is essential. Many renters worry about landlords unexpectedly raising the rent during a lease. This guide will help you understand Indiana law, address common renter concerns, and outline your options if you receive a mid-lease rent increase notice.

When Can a Landlord Raise Rent in Indiana?

In Indiana, a landlord generally cannot raise rent during the fixed term of a lease agreement. The Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations states that the lease is a binding contract both sides must honor for its duration^[1]. A landlord may only raise rent when:

• The lease has ended and you’re moving to a new lease term (whether renewed or month-to-month)
• The lease terms specifically allow for rent adjustments (rare in standard residential leases)
• You and your landlord both agree in writing to change the rent

In most cases, landlords must provide advance written notice before increasing rent once the lease expires. For month-to-month arrangements in Indiana, at least 30 days’ notice is required before a rent increase takes effect^[1].

What If My Lease Mentions Rent Increases?

Some leases include special clauses about periodic rent adjustments. If your signed lease states that rent can go up mid-lease (for example, after a certain number of months), the landlord may be able to enforce that—but only under the exact terms you agreed to.

Always keep a copy of your lease and review it carefully before responding to rent increase notices. If the lease language is unclear, consider contacting a local legal aid organization.

What Should I Do If I Get a Mid-Lease Rent Increase Notice?

Indiana law protects renters from mid-lease rent hikes unless your contract says otherwise. Here’s what you can do if your landlord tries to raise the rent while your lease is still active:

• Check your lease agreement for any clauses about rent increases.
• If there’s no such clause, you can respond in writing stating that you do not agree to the increase and that you expect your rent to stay the same until the end of the lease.
• If the landlord insists or demands more money, you may want to contact the Indiana Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division.

Submitting a Complaint to the State

If you feel your landlord is unlawfully increasing the rent, you may file a consumer complaint:

• Form name: Consumer Complaint Form
• How it's used: This form should be used if your landlord is violating your lease terms or attempting a mid-lease rent increase without agreement. For example, if your lease runs from January to December, but your landlord gives notice in June of a rent hike starting July, submit this form.
• Official Indiana Consumer Complaint Form (PDF)

Who Handles Tenant Complaints in Indiana?

While Indiana does not have a dedicated housing tribunal, the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division is the appropriate office for rental complaints and disputes^[2].

Relevant Indiana Laws & Protections

The main legislation covering landlord-tenant relationships is Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31. Key points include:

• Landlords must honor the terms of the lease unless both parties agree to any changes
• Written notice is required for rent adjustments at lease end or for month-to-month renters
• Retaliatory or discriminatory rent increases (such as responding to a repair request) are not allowed under Indiana Code § 32-31-8

FAQs About Indiana Rent Increases

1. Can my landlord raise rent while my lease is still active?
   No, unless your lease contract specifically allows it. Most standard leases lock in your rent for the agreed lease term.
2. What notice is required for a rent increase after my lease ends?
   For month-to-month renters, Indiana requires at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase can take effect.
3. What if I signed a lease that allows for a mid-lease rent increase?
   If you agreed to a specific clause permitting a rent increase, the landlord can carry out the increase, but only by following the exact process and timing outlined.
4. How do I contest an illegal rent increase?
   You can file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division using the Consumer Complaint Form linked above.
5. Does Indiana limit how much my landlord can increase the rent?
   No, Indiana does not have statewide rent control. However, increases must comply with state laws and your lease.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• A landlord cannot increase rent mid-lease unless your written agreement allows it and both parties consent.
• Always read your lease closely and keep records of communication with your landlord.
• If you face a rent increase you believe is unlawful, you have the right to file an official complaint.

Understanding your legal protections ensures you can confidently address any rent changes or disputes that arise during your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – for filing rental and landlord-tenant complaints
• Indiana Consumer Complaint Form (PDF)
• Indiana Code Title 32 – Landlord-Tenant Relations
• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority – Renter Resources
• Indiana Legal Services – Tenant Rights

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1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations
2. Indiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Division

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