Does Kentucky have any rent control or rent stabilization laws in 2025?

Kentucky does not have rent control or rent stabilization laws. Landlords can generally set rents and increases as they choose, but must provide proper notice.

How much notice does my landlord have to give before raising the rent?

For month-to-month tenants covered by URLTA, landlords must give at least 30 days written notice before a rent increase.

Can my landlord raise my rent during my lease term?

No, for fixed-term leases, rent cannot be raised until the lease ends unless the lease allows changes.

Where can I file a complaint if I think a rent increase is unfair or illegal?

You may file a complaint in your local Kentucky District Court or consult local legal aid services.

What tenants are protected by federal rent limits?

Renters in federally subsidized housing may have special rent protections. Contact your local housing authority for guidance.

Kentucky Rent Control Laws: 2025 Renter's Guide

Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Kentucky published June 21, 2025

If you rent in Kentucky, you may have questions about rising rents and your rights as a tenant in 2025. With housing costs changing, it's important to understand if Kentucky has rent control, what protections you have, and where to turn for help. This comprehensive guide explains the current rent regulations, official forms, and support resources to help you make informed decisions.

Understanding Rent Control and Rent Stabilization in Kentucky

Rent control refers to government limits on how much landlords can raise rent each year. Rent stabilization programs also regulate increases and tenant protections. In many cities and states, these rules keep rental housing affordable and predictable for tenants.

However, Kentucky does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws as of 2025. This means:

There are no state-imposed limits on the amount or frequency of rent increases for most residential rentals.
Landlords can generally raise rent as they choose, as long as they provide proper notice and do not violate the specific terms of your lease.
Some cities across the U.S. have rent control, but Kentucky law specifically forbids local governments from enacting local rent regulation ordinances.

Current Kentucky Law on Rent Increases

While there is no rent control, landlords must still follow state requirements regarding rent increases and lease terms. The main law governing tenant and landlord rights is the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), adopted in select counties and cities¹.

Landlords must provide at least 30 days written notice before increasing rent for month-to-month tenants.
The increase cannot take effect before the first rent payment due after the 30-day period.
For fixed-term leases (for example, a one-year lease), rent cannot be raised until the lease ends unless otherwise specified in the lease.

Counties or cities that have not adopted URLTA may have different or fewer protections. Always read your lease agreement and check if your area follows URLTA.

Are There Any Exceptions or Special Protections?

The majority of rentals in Kentucky are not subject to rent control or stabilization. However, federal law may apply to certain subsidized housing or public housing properties. For example, tenants in Section 8 or other government-assisted housing have protections tied to federal rules. If you live in subsidized housing, contact your local housing authority for details.

Official Tribunal or Board for Kentucky Renters

Kentucky does not have a statewide housing tribunal. Disputes between tenants and landlords are typically handled in county district courts. For counties and cities that have adopted URLTA, tenant-landlord issues may fall under local jurisdiction.

Find your local Kentucky District Court information here.

Key Official Forms for Kentucky Renters

While there is no rent control application or complaint form, renters should know about important official forms, particularly under URLTA:

Notice of Rent Increase (No official state form):
Landlords typically must provide written notice of rent changes. No standard statewide form exists, so written notice may be provided through landlord-generated letters or communications. Always save copies of any notices received.
Complaint Form – Local Court Small Claims/Dispute (Varies by county):
If you believe a rent increase is illegal (for example, discriminatory or retaliatory), you may file a complaint in your local Kentucky District Court.
For example, the Kentucky Court of Justice Small Claims forms can be used in disputes under $2,500.

Renter Tip: If a landlord raises your rent suddenly and you suspect retaliation or discrimination, consider speaking to your local court clerk about the proper form to file.

Before using any form, check the specific requirements in your city or county, as procedures may differ across Kentucky.

What About Rent Increases Due to Repairs or Renovations?

Some landlords may raise rent after making improvements. Kentucky law does not prohibit this, but the same notice rules apply: 30 days written notice for new rent. Tenants are not required to accept increases before the end of their lease term.

Action Steps for Kentucky Renters Facing Rent Increases

If you receive a notice of rent increase in Kentucky, follow these recommended steps:

Carefully review the notice and your lease terms.
Check if your city/county uses URLTA. This affects your rights and notice requirements.
Save all written communications with your landlord.
If you suspect the increase is discriminatory, retaliatory, or improper, contact your local district court or a tenant advocacy resource for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Kentucky have any rent control or rent stabilization laws in 2025?
Kentucky does not have rent control or rent stabilization laws. Landlords can generally set rents and increases as they choose, within the bounds of proper notice.
How much notice does my landlord have to give before raising the rent?
For month-to-month tenants covered by URLTA, landlords must give at least 30 days written notice before a rent increase.
Can my landlord raise my rent during my lease term?
For fixed-term leases (like a one-year lease), rent cannot be increased until the lease expires, unless the lease itself allows for changes.
Where can I file a complaint if I think a rent increase is unfair or illegal?
If you believe a rent increase is retaliatory or discriminatory, you can file a complaint in your local Kentucky District Court or consult with legal aid. See the Kentucky District Courts directory for more information.
What tenants are protected by federal rent limits?
Renters in federally subsidized or public housing properties may be protected by federal rules, regardless of Kentucky law. Contact your local housing authority for details.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kentucky District Courts – File legal disputes or seek information about your specific area.
Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) – Read the current tenancy law.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Kentucky – Federal housing info and tenant rights.
Kentucky Court of Justice Forms – Find local court forms for complaints.
Local Legal Aid providers – Search "Kentucky Legal Aid" for free or low-cost tenant advice.