Do Vacancy Decontrol Laws Affect Kentucky Renters?

Understanding how rent limits and changes happen after a tenant moves out is important for renters everywhere. If you’re renting in Kentucky and have questions about rent increases, it's natural to wonder if so-called "vacancy decontrol" rules apply, and what legal rights you have under state law.

What Is Vacancy Decontrol?

Vacancy decontrol is a policy that allows landlords to set a new, unrestricted rent amount when a rental unit becomes vacant—even if there were previous limits or rent control. This usually impacts tenants in cities with local rent control laws, letting the property owner charge a new market rate each time someone moves out.

Does Kentucky Have Rent Control or Vacancy Decontrol?

Kentucky does not have a statewide rent control law. As of 2024, state legislation—specifically, Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383—does not set limits on how much a landlord can charge for rent or how much they can raise the rent when a unit becomes vacant.^[1]

In fact, Kentucky law prohibits local governments from enacting any form of residential rent control, including vacancy decontrol measures. This means:

• Rent is controlled only by your lease agreement, not by government limits.
• When a rental unit becomes vacant, the landlord can set any new rent amount.
• There are no official vacancy decontrol protections for renters in Kentucky, because there are no rent caps at all.

How Rent Increases Work in Kentucky

Even though there’s no rent control, Kentucky landlords must still follow certain rules if they wish to raise the rent. For tenants on a month-to-month lease, landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase can take effect.^[1]

Eviction and Lease Renewal Concerns

If a landlord wishes to end a tenancy (for example, to raise the rent for a new tenant), they must follow the procedures set out in the Kentucky landlord-tenant statutes. This typically requires written notice and may involve an official eviction process if the tenant does not leave voluntarily. More details can be found with the official Kentucky Court of Justice, which oversees residential tenancy disputes.

Key Forms and Official Procedures for Kentucky Renters

• Notice of Termination of Tenancy – There is no universal form for rent increases, but if a landlord is ending a month-to-month tenancy, they must provide written notice. Refer to KRS 383.695 for details.
• Forcible Entry and Detainer Complaint (AOC-216) – Used by a landlord to start the official eviction process. Tenants will be served with this if an eviction proceeds. You can view the form on the Kentucky Court of Justice website. If you receive this form, it means a court hearing has been scheduled and you should prepare to respond.

Renters do not have to file a specific form to contest a rent increase, but can respond in writing to the landlord or seek legal advice if the increase is accompanied by procedural issues or retaliation.

Applicable Kentucky Laws and Tribunal Information

• Relevant Legislation: Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383 (Landlord and Tenant)
• Residential Tenancy Tribunal: Most landlord-tenant disputes are heard by the Kentucky Court of Justice – Family Court and District Court. These courts handle eviction cases and rent disputes.

FAQ: Kentucky Rent Control and Vacancy Decontrol

1. Does Kentucky have any rent control or rent-stabilized units?
   Kentucky does not have rent control or rent stabilization for residential units. State law prevents cities or counties from passing such rules.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent when I move out?
   Yes. Without any rent control or vacancy decontrol protections, landlords can set a new rent price for the next tenant.
3. What notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   If you rent month-to-month, your landlord must give you at least 30 days’ written notice before the new rent takes effect.
4. Where can I get official help with an eviction or rent dispute?
   You can contact the Kentucky Court of Justice, or seek assistance from local legal aid services if you receive an eviction notice.

Summary: What Kentucky Renters Need to Know

• Kentucky has no rent control, and vacancy decontrol laws do not apply.
• Landlords must give 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase for month-to-month leases.
• Check your lease terms and keep records of any notices or communications.

While Kentucky law gives landlords broad freedom to set rents, renters have rights about notice and process. If you have concerns, there are resources to help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Court of Justice – Family & District Courts: Handles landlord-tenant disputes and evictions. Find contact details by county.
• Legal Aid of the Bluegrass: Provides free legal help for eligible renters facing eviction, rent disputes, or landlord problems.
• Kentucky Landlord-Tenant Statutes: Official state law governing rental relationships.

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1. Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383 – Landlord and Tenant
2. State law prohibiting local rent control measures – KRS 65.132
3. Kentucky Court of Justice

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