Is There Rent Control in Kentucky? Local Rent Caps and Tenant Protections Explained

As a renter in Kentucky, you may wonder if your city limits how much your landlord can raise the rent each year, or if there are special local rules protecting tenants from sharp increases. This guide covers Kentucky’s statewide approach to rent control, explains how cities handle rent regulations, and offers practical advice and official resources for renters navigating rent increases or disputes.

Does Kentucky Have Statewide Rent Control?

Kentucky does not have any statewide rent control or rent stabilization law. This means the state government does not limit how much landlords can raise the rent for private residential units. Generally, landlords in Kentucky may set and increase rent as they choose, subject to the terms of your lease.

City Rent Caps and Local Ordinances in Kentucky

Kentucky law currently prohibits cities and counties from enacting their own rent control measures. The relevant state law, Kentucky Revised Statutes Section 383.605, clearly states that local governments may not adopt ordinances controlling the amount of rent charged for privately owned residential property.^[1]

As a result, major cities like Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green do not have local rent caps or rent stabilization laws. All rent increases are governed solely by what’s in your lease and state law regarding proper notice.

Required Notice for Rent Increases

Even without rent control, Kentucky law protects renters by requiring landlords to give advance written notice before increasing rent on a month-to-month lease:

• 30-day written notice is required for rent increases on month-to-month tenancies.
• If you have a fixed-term lease (for example, a 1-year lease), rent cannot be raised until the lease period ends, unless your agreement specifically allows for increases during the lease.

For official information, see the Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383.695 regarding notice for changes to rental agreements.^[2]

Your Rights If Facing a Large Rent Increase

If you receive a notice of a rent increase, you have several options:

• Review your current lease to check if the notice and timing are valid.
• Negotiate with your landlord for a smaller increase or longer lease term.
• Seek assistance from local housing agencies if you believe the increase is retaliatory or discriminatory.

Note: Landlords cannot increase rent in retaliation for you exercising legal rights, such as making repair requests or reporting violations. If you suspect retaliation or discrimination, you can file a complaint.

Filing a Complaint: Official Forms and Where to Send Them

• Kentucky Human Rights Commission Complaint Form (Official Form)
  Use this form if you believe your landlord is raising rent based on discrimination (such as race, gender, disability, or familial status). Example: If you receive a substantial rent increase after requesting a wheelchair ramp and suspect disability discrimination, you can submit this form online or by mail to the Kentucky Human Rights Commission.

Where to Get Help: Tenancy Disputes and Enforcement

In Kentucky, tenant-landlord disputes are generally handled in local District Court. There is no specialized landlord-tenant tribunal. For more information, visit the Kentucky District Court information page.

For guidance on tenant rights, see the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Guide.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation

• Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA)^[3] – applies only in certain cities and counties that have adopted it.
• Statewide laws on rent control prohibition: KRS 383.605

FAQ: Rent Increases and Tenant Protections in Kentucky

1. Are there any cities in Kentucky with rent control?
   No. Kentucky law prohibits cities from enacting rent control or rent cap ordinances for private rentals.
2. How much notice must my landlord give before raising my rent?
   Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice for rent increases on month-to-month leases.
3. Is there any limit to how much my rent can be increased?
   No set percentage or dollar cap; the increase must not be discriminatory or retaliatory and must follow notice laws.
4. What can I do if I think a rent increase is unfair or discriminatory?
   You can file a complaint with the Kentucky Human Rights Commission if you suspect discrimination. Otherwise, negotiation or legal review might be possible.
5. Does the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) apply to all cities?
   No. It only applies in cities/counties that have adopted it. Contact your local government or check your lease for applicability.

Key Takeaways: Kentucky Rent Control and Tenant Protections

• No Kentucky city or county can set rent caps or stabilization for private rentals.
• Landlords can generally raise rent with proper written notice, but cannot retaliate or discriminate.
• If you feel an increase is unfair, learn your rights and consider seeking advice or filing a complaint if protected classes or retaliation is involved.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Guide – General tenant rights in Kentucky.
• Kentucky District Court – For filing or responding to rental disputes.
• Kentucky Human Rights Commission Complaint Form – For filing discrimination complaints against landlords.
• Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) – Text of the legislation (applies in select areas).

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1. "Prohibition of rent control by local governments". KRS 383.605
2. "Notice requirements for changing rental agreements". KRS 383.695
3. "Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act" (selected cities/counties in Kentucky). KRS Chapter 383

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