Does Kansas Have Rent Control? Key Updates for 2025

If you’re a renter living in Kansas, understanding your rights around rent increases and rent control can give you peace of mind. With rising rents in many states, questions about rent control and rent stabilization have become more pressing. This article provides a clear overview of the current rights for renters in Kansas in 2025, including whether any rent control laws exist and what protections are available.

Are There Rent Control Laws in Kansas?

As of 2025, Kansas does not have state or local rent control laws in place. That means there are no state-imposed limits on how much a landlord can increase rent for most private residential properties. Local governments in Kansas are also expressly prohibited by law from enacting their own rent control or rent stabilization ordinances.

• There is no statewide rent control or rent cap in Kansas.
• Local city or county governments cannot set rent regulation rules.
• Landlords can set rents at market value and can generally increase rent with proper notice.

This legal landscape is set by the Kansas Statutes Annotated § 12-16,107, which restricts local rent regulation in the state.^[1]

How Much Notice is Required for a Rent Increase?

While Kansas does not limit the amount of a rent increase, it does require landlords to provide proper advance notice before raising the rent. This notice must follow the state’s tenancy regulations, primarily covered by the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[2]

• For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase takes effect.
• For leases with a set term (e.g., one-year), rent cannot typically be raised until the lease expires, unless the lease agreement itself allows otherwise.

Key Forms and Notices for Kansas Renters

There are no specialized “rent control” complaint forms in Kansas due to the absence of these laws. However, general landlord and tenant forms are essential if you need to address rent disputes or related issues:

• Notice to Vacate (Form KSA 58-2570)
  Used when a tenant wishes to move out, or when a landlord ends a tenancy. For example, if you receive a rent increase and decide not to accept, you can issue this notice. View and download the official Notice to Vacate form (PDF) from the Kansas Attorney General.
• Complaint for Rent or Possession (No specific state form)
  If you face an unlawful rent increase that violates your existing lease, you may contact your local District Court to file a complaint. Forms and procedures vary; check with your local Kansas District Court for documentation and instructions.

Who Oversees Rental Disputes in Kansas?

Rental housing disputes in Kansas are generally handled by the local District Courts. There is no separate housing tribunal or rent board for residential tenancy matters. Tenants can seek dispute resolution, eviction response, or rent dispute help by filing at their county’s District Court. For guidance about court procedures, visit the Kansas District Courts portal.

Protections and Exceptions for Kansas Renters

Even though Kansas does not have rent control, tenants are still protected by general tenancy laws. Here are a few important points:

• Landlords cannot raise rent as retaliation for complaints about repairs or code violations; such retaliatory actions are prohibited.
• Written notice is always required for tenancy changes, including rent increases and lease terminations.
• Special federal and state rules may apply to rent in subsidized or affordable housing programs (such as Section 8). Contact your local housing authority for assistance if you live in regulated housing.

Review the main Kansas Residential Landlord & Tenant Act for the legal framework covering rental relationships (read the full Act here).

FAQ: Kansas Rent Control and Rent Increases

1. Does any city in Kansas have its own rent control?
   No. Kansas law prevents local governments from creating rent control or rent stabilization regulations.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent by any amount?
   Yes, there is no state cap, but the landlord must provide required written notice before an increase. Check your lease for specific terms.
3. How do I respond if I receive a rent increase I can’t afford?
   You can try to negotiate with your landlord, or if you wish to move, provide proper notice to vacate following state rules.
4. What if my landlord raises rent as punishment after a complaint?
   Retaliatory rent increases are not permitted. You may seek help from your local District Court or the Kansas Attorney General’s office.
5. Are there different rules for subsidized or Section 8 housing?
   Yes. Subsidized housing has separate regulations on rent amounts and increases. Contact your local Housing Authority for assistance.

Key Takeaways for Kansas Renters in 2025

• Kansas does not have rent control or rent stabilization laws.
• Landlords can generally raise rent without limits but must give proper notice.
• General tenant protections apply, especially against retaliation and concerning written lease terms.

Staying informed about your rights and local tenancy regulations is the best way to protect yourself as a renter in Kansas.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kansas Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resources: Information and downloadable forms, including notices to vacate.
• Kansas District Courts: Locate your county court for renter complaints or filing forms.
• U.S. HUD Kansas Renter Assistance: Help with subsidized/affordable housing and federal protections.

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1. [1] See Kansas Statutes Annotated § 12-16,107 (local rent control prohibition).
2. [2] Main tenancy law: Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, KSA 58-2540 et seq.
3. Official tenant forms: Kansas Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Resources
4. For litigation and dispute process: Kansas District Courts Guide

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