Does Kansas have any form of rent control or rent stabilization?

No, Kansas law prohibits all local rent control or stabilization measures.

What notice does my landlord have to give before raising my rent?

For most month-to-month rentals, landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice.

Are there any exceptions where rent increases are limited?

Yes, federally subsidized housing (such as Section 8) follows federal rent limitation rules.

How can I challenge a sudden or large rent increase?

You may try negotiating, seek mediation, or file a complaint with the Kansas Human Rights Commission if you believe the increase is retaliatory or discriminatory.

Who can I contact if I am having trouble with my landlord over rent?

Contact your local District Court, the Kansas Attorney General’s office, or Kansas Legal Services.

Kansas Rent Control History: What Renters Need to Know

Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Kansas published June 21, 2025

For renters in Kansas, understanding the history and current status of rent control and rent stabilization is important—especially if you’re facing rent increases or concerns about affordability. While some cities across the U.S. have enacted rent control, Kansas has a unique history on this issue. This article summarizes key moments, explains the state of the law today, and provides links to official Kansas resources for renters.

Rent Control: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?

Rent control refers to laws that limit how much landlords can increase rent each year or set caps on the maximum rent allowed. Rent stabilization is similar but typically focuses on gradual, predictable increases and tenant protections from eviction. Rent control and stabilization are designed to help renters stay in their homes and protect against sharp rent hikes.

Has Kansas Ever Had Rent Control?

Kansas’s state government does not permit any local rent control or stabilization laws. In 1981, Kansas enacted legislation prohibiting any city or county from regulating rent^[1]. This means that in Kansas, landlords generally have the right to set rent amounts and increase rent without state or local government limits—unless a separate federal program applies to your unit (for example, Section 8 or public housing).

Historic Campaigns for Rent Control in Kansas

There have been periodic campaigns and discussions about rent control in larger Kansas cities like Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City, especially in times of housing shortages or rapid rent increases. However, no city or county in Kansas has ever successfully enacted rent control or rent stabilization due to the state law preemption.

1981: State law passed banning municipal rent control ordinances.
2010s–2020s: Local advocacy groups in some cities called for rent stabilization, but efforts could not move forward due to state law.

Today, any changes to allow rent control in Kansas would require statewide legislative action.

Current Kansas Rent Laws Affecting Renters

While rent control is not allowed, the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRLTA) provides important rules about rent increases, eviction notice, lease agreements, and security deposits^[2].

Notice for Rent Increases: Landlords must generally give the same notice as required to terminate your rental agreement, which is usually 30 days for month-to-month leases.
Lease Protections: If you have a fixed-term lease, the rent cannot be increased until the lease ends, unless the lease allows increases during the term.
No Statewide Rent Cap: There is no maximum limit for rent increases unless your home is part of a government-subsidized program.

If you believe your rights have been violated, the main tribunal for landlord-tenant issues in Kansas is the Kansas District Court, where you can file complaints related to your tenancy.

Important Forms for Kansas Renters

Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form: No official state form)
Used when a tenant or landlord needs to legally end a month-to-month tenancy. Tenants should provide written notice, typically 30 days in advance. For sample notice language, see the official Kansas Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Guide (page 7).
Complaint/Petition for Eviction (Form: Limited use, obtained from District Court)
If you face wrongful eviction or need to respond to an eviction, the court clerk can provide official forms at your local District Court. Forms usage may vary by county.

For step-by-step action on addressing a rental issue, such as disputing a rent increase or notice, see the Landlord-Tenant Guide above for sample letters and instructions.

FAQ: Kansas Rent Control and Rent Increases

Does Kansas have any form of rent control or rent stabilization?
No, Kansas law prohibits local governments from enacting any rent control or stabilization measures. There are no state-imposed caps on rent increases for privately rented housing.
What notice does my landlord have to give before raising my rent?
For most month-to-month agreements, landlords must provide at least a 30-day written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
Are there any exceptions where rent increases are limited?
Yes. If you live in federally subsidized housing (such as Section 8), your rent increases are restricted by federal rules. Otherwise, state and local law does not set limits.
How can I challenge a sudden or large rent increase?
While Kansas law does not limit rent increases, you may speak with your landlord to negotiate or seek mediation. If you believe a rent increase is used as a form of retaliation or discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Kansas Human Rights Commission.
Who can I contact if I am having trouble with my landlord over rent?
You may contact your local District Court, the Kansas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division, or legal aid organizations for assistance.

Key Takeaways for Kansas Renters

Kansas law currently prohibits all rent control and rent stabilization measures for private housing.
Rent increases must be properly noticed but are not capped, unless your lease or federal program says otherwise.
Tenant rights and dispute procedures are governed by the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Understanding these laws can help you plan ahead and protect your rights as a renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Kansas

Kansas Attorney General – Landlord and Tenant Rights: Official consumer protection information, complaint contacts, and sample letters.
Kansas Human Rights Commission: Report housing discrimination or retaliation if you believe your rights are violated.
Kansas District Court Directory: Locate your district court for filing or responding to a landlord-tenant dispute.
Kansas Legal Services: Free and low-cost legal help for renters facing eviction or other housing issues.

[1] See the ban on rent control statutes at Kansas Statutes Annotated 12-16,120
[2] Tenant and landlord rules detailed in the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act